Design Checklists - Libraries and Resource Centres

Things to consider:

• Systems for booking PCs (to avoid manual bookings using up staff time), or drop in use?
• Layout of resources - open plan or designated spaces for private study, ICT etc. Consider different styles of learning.
• Range of resources- consider current offer but also what that might look like in the future.
• Mobile phone internet searches, ipods etc. Leave room for growth and changes in technology.
• Possibilities for using the library as the 'heart' of the school with links to other support such as pastoral care, career advice etc.
• Consider the balance between security, safety of staff and students and accessibility, the library should be welcoming and non-intimidating.
• Will the library used for teaching as well as independent study? If so you will need to consider use of space for class work, and or community/adult learning - perhaps a separate room?

Tick these off when you've considered them.
click to tick / double click to Un-tick

Do make sure the shelving is adjustable

Do match shelving heights to your students

Do provide adjustable tables for reading and pc use for wheelchair users

Do ensure lighting is in line with shelving.

Do have clear orientation and pathways between shelves (ensure your widths are wide enough for electric wheelchairs as well as manual wheelchairs)

Do consider acoustics - high ceilings will make the room noisier as will hard flooring.

Do provide accessible software

Do build in office, storage and locker space for staff and a sink and kettle point.

Do provide 'quieter' areas for private study work

Do specify good sightlines - this will require less staff to supervise the space.

Do specify plenty of power points and consider how cabling can be contained.

Do allow for display space including cases to display students work and links with community groups and partnership agencies.

Do have blinds to control sunlight

Do obtain current guidelines and recommendations from appropriate bodies* and always plan to leave space for future development.

Do provide clear signage (including appropriate community languages)

Do consult pupils and teachers in the design of your library.

Do recruit a Library/ Resource Centre manager in the early stages to advise on the design.

Tick these off when you've considered them.
click to tick / double click to Un-tick

Don't situate PCs near windows or skylights unless substantial blinds are provided to prevent glare.

Don't have shelving too low as this will be awkward to use.

Don't build in too many 'hiding places'

Don't plan too many curved walls, as these are difficult to use for display, shelving or projections.

Don't disperse the learning resources in smaller units as this is difficult to manage from a security perspective but also with regard to student and staff support.

Don't ignore colour schemes and seating which should be attractive to young people but also conducive to learning.

Considerations for Community Libraries.
Some schools have joined together with their Public Library Service to create a dual access facility. There are advantages and disadvantages to this approach and these are some of the points you will need to consider with regard to the design and management of a community library:

Who will fund the building, building maintenance, management and book stock? In many cases a joint approach has been the preferred option. Collaborating on book stock budget allows for greater choice both for the public, teachers and pupils, there is also the added advantage of loans from other public libraries in the authority. Will the public and school stock be kept separate or will there be open access? Considerations need to be made around allocation of coursework books etc. Staff should have experience of working within a public library and school context.

How will the library be accessed by the school and the general public?
A joint entrance allows for a more integrated approach but you will need to consider child protection issues and security. Avoid more than one floor which will be more difficult to supervise and consider accommodating staff offices and related support services such as careers advice and pastoral care in this area. This additional presence will improve supervision and will also enhance the libraries role and use.

What additional facilities will be required?
We would recommend you provide a public toilet and baby changing facilities. An informal seating and refreshment area nearby will make the resource more welcoming and encourage longer visits - there will need to be a clear threshold between café area and library to avoid mess and disruption.

When will the library be open?
You may choose to have separate public opening times out of school hours, or allow public visitors during school hours. Consider the peak times for visits from school and public and try to accommodate these. A key advantage of opening to the public during school hours is encouraging visits from parents dropping students off. You will also need to consider how the library will accommodate class visits - can an study room or ICT suite be allocated for this purpose which will contain activity away from general visits?

Visit the excellent, Designing Libraries website for Case Studies from new build libraries and a discussion page for sending your specific queries or requests. www.designinglibraries.org.uk To access a research project carried out by Birmingham UCE on Dual use Libraries please visit: www.ebase.uce.ac.uk/projects/dualuse.htm

The following organisations will be able to provide you with up-to-date legislation and guidelines for Libraries:

Chartered Institute of Library & Information professionals
www.cilip.org.uk

If you would like specific advice about your library or learning resource area please get in touch with us.