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This workshop report explores the evolving role of libraries, emphasizing the need for adaptive planning in light of digital advancements. It highlights the shift toward increased digital collections while maintaining access to physical resources. Libraries will strengthen community ties by providing flexible spaces for collaboration, events, and programming. Technological integration, including the use of portable devices and maker spaces, will foster creativity. Partnerships and shared facilities will expand service offerings, positioning libraries as vital community hubs for learning and interaction.
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Planning Assumptions AND DESIGN TRENDS sUSANkent and Kathy page WHO NEEDS LIBRARIES: SERVICES AND FACILITIES PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE plpWORKSHOPapril 3 - 4, 2014
Collections • More + more materials will be available in digital formats • Physical collections will stay at current sizes for short term, may decrease over time • Local collections will be current, content focused on population served • Libraries will offer access to older, less in-demand titles through consortia, shared resources
Collections • Access to books + media still a basic expectation but not always users’ primary goal • Convenience + browsability high priorities • Alternatives to standard physical collection housing will be explored in tandem with expanding econtent – e.g., secure vending/dispensing technology, non-Dewey classification
Seating and People Space • Increased, distributed seating for individuals + collaborative work • Increased seating for those who bring their own devices – laptops, tablets, smart phones, etc. • Universal plug-in capacity standard. • Acoustical zoning by activity + noise level
Seating and People Space • Increased space and multiple spaces for programs, events, gatherings of all types • Spaces increasingly reconfigurable + flexible – careful balance between dedicated space and multi-use space • Spaces for focus on service programs – literacy, student support + tutoring, new Americans, job seekers
Digital Technology • Role as primary public gateway to online world will continue • Number of desktop workstations will stay at current levels, or decrease, as use of laptops and other portable devices increase • Many libraries will loan these devices for in-library and/or take-home use. • Learning space + content creation space will become more common
BEYOND PROGRAMMING – DYI / MAKER SPACE / PLAY SPACE • Focus on creativity / sharing knowledge + expertise • Sometimes tech-focused (3D printers, self-published books), some not • Spotlight on community “makers” • Expanded focus on early childhood development + literacy (Play + Learn, interactive play space, active environment)
Partnerships • Co-located + shared-use facilities will increase • Libraries as part of campus setting – community centers, schools, retail, housing
Library As Place • Libraries will increasingly be the go-to venue for programs, community events, gatherings of all sorts • Community living room • Crossroads - commons • Civic identity • Amenities – food + drink, retail, exhibits
Operations • Staffed service desks will be consolidated, often one service desk per building • Mobile concierge-like service points, “greeter stations” • Self service the standard • Most accounts and circulation transactions transacted online • Operating revenues will remain at current levels – no significant increases • Streamlined operations a primary design priority
