About Designing Libraries

Designing Libraries is a freely accessible resource for everyone interested in design and innovation in libraries

Company number: 15968842

Staines Library Relocation and Redevelopment

Delivering a Landmark Community Destination

Weybridge Library Extension and Refurbishment:

Expanding a Valuable Community Asset

Cliftonville Library Transformation

Creating an Inclusive, Community-Focused Library for All Ages

Hackney Central Library - Embracing Heritage, Nature, and Neighbourhood

Alongside the beautiful books, the new library also features plants, murals, exhibitions, artworks, and even a mini grand piano!

Transforming Kilburn Library into a Modern Community Hub

Showing how collaborative design, practical planning and creative thinking can deliver a space that is both inspiring and commercially sustainable

Aberaeron Library, Ceredigion, Wales

The new Aberaeron Library is not just a relocation – it is a reinvention, providing a brighter, larger, and more

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Library New Extension Floor

Opened in 2022, the 6th floor extension of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Library includes distinct areas for both collaborative work and quiet study

Advisory board members: Profile information about the Designing Library advisory board members

Meet the team: A new team is working to ensure the Designing Libraries website is both fit-for-purpose and sustainable in changing and challenging times.

Purpose of designing libraries: Designing, refurbishing or remodelling a library is a major investment. Designing Libraries helps you make the most of it.

A collaborative resource: The success of Designing Libraries depends on the contributions of its community of users.

Our history: Designing Libraries was set up in 2004, funded by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) as part of its Framework for the Future programme.

Policy framework: Designing Libraries is a not-for-profit community interest company providing online resources for the benefit of the library community.

Partners: Designing Libraries acknowledges the invaluable support given by its stakeholder organisations

Sponsors: Designing Libraries' sponsors

Contact Us: How to get in touch with us.

The designing libraries resources and website is the go to place for public library staff working on library upgrades and transformation projects.

Projects like these are a great opportunity and designing libraries is the place to start your journey- if you are looking for inspiration from case studies of library transformations across the UK and the World, copies of library standards and publications or best practice case studies on themes such as children’s libraries, outdoor spaces, sustainable design- It’s all you need in one place to reimagine your library for the future.