Masterpieces: Library Architecture + Design

In the past decade, the increasing requirements of the multimedia world have substantially increased the demands placed on libraries. They went through a transformation from introverted hoards of knowledge to globally networked information administrators and communication brokers. Today, libraries have to offer their users constantly advancing digital search possibilities coupled with enough spaces for concentrated reading. Whether new buildings, conversions or extensions, this title shows the diversity of this building task to complying with the latest technology requirements and cultural demands at the same time. For the new edition, many new projects have been selected. This ensures that apart from the masterpieces of the first decade of the 21st century, the best new libraries are presented.

The age of multimedia constitutes a great challenge for libraries as they have to reinvent themselves to meet the constantly growing demands of digital applications. As a result, within the past decade, libraries have evolved from introverted hoards of knowledge to globally networked information and communication hubs. The architectural implementation of this transformation process has resulted in sophisticated buildings that succeed in combining impressive architecture with the complex contemporary requirements.

The new edition of Masterpieces: Library Architecture + Design shows that this process of transformation is far from over. Whether new building, conversion or extension, it presents new masterpieces of library design from around the world. The successful combination of contemporary architecture and cutting-edge technology is evidence that in the digital age, this type of building is as topical as never before.