Planning and Designing Libraries for Children and Young People

Abstract

Space is one of the basic resources of library and information services and its nature is determined by the needs and environment of the users. It seems appropriate, therefore, to devote a book to the particular space requirements of children and young people, whether as pupils in schools or as users of public libraries. Importantly, there are also a number of common planning and design considerations because of the well-established links between schools and public libraries. Within the context of school and public library, this book describes the process, principles and practice of planning, designing, and managing the library space resource, with particular emphasis on the librarian's role and contribution. This book should enable the librarian to develop a critical and evaluative attitude to the utilization, layout, appearance and environment of the school library, or public library department for children and young people. In addition to the above themes, the text ranges over a number of important areas: types of school and public library space provision (from babies to sixth formers); standards and guidelines (UK and elsewhere); the location of the library; the range of spaces within types of library provision (computer areas to coffee bars); policy and practical issues (from integration or separation, through IT and AV provision, to ambience); furniture and equipment; case study libraries for children and young people; guide to sources of information and a list of suppliers. While this work is principally intended for UK readers, its international flavour broadens its appeal, interest and usefulness.

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