Planning and Designing Libraries for Children and Young People

Now that fewer new libraries are being built it is particularly important to maximize space in the buildings available, and to ensure that library plans are determined by the needs of the users. Often the interior of a building will be redesigned, and the librarian can influence the architect's plans. Planning and Designing Libraries for Children and Young People introduces the concept of space as a resource available to the library manager - along with stock, staff and finance - and it will need managing in exactly the same way as any other resource.
This publication will enable school and children's librarians to develop a critical and evaluative attitude to the utilization, layout, appearance and environment of their libraries. Dealing both with the needs of the children's and teenage sections of the public library and with the needs of the school library, the book takes the reader through the different stages in the creation of a library space resource, and includes a consideration of the location of the library; the range of accommodation; standards and guidelines; policy, committees and teams; spatial relationships and the library layout; and furniture and equipment.
Illustrated with library plans and photographs, and full of practical advice supported by case studies, this book will be an indispensable aid to school and children's librarians, as well as managers of library space, who wish to create a positive environment for children and young people in school and public libraries. It will also be invaluable to practising architects and to those responsible for running courses in layout and design.

Michael Dewe MA FLA, is a Lecturer in Information and Library Studies at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth.