Purpose of designing Libraries

Whether you are developing a new library, refurbishing an existing building or looking for ways to improve the space you already have, Designing Libraries brings together research, practical guidance, examples and professional expertise in one place.

Find ideas. Make informed decisions. Learn from others.

Toolkits and practical guidance
Practical resources to help you tackle common library design challenges - from planning spaces and commissioning projects to accessibility, flexibility and sustainability.

Research and evidence
Explore research and evidence about how people use library spaces and what makes libraries effective, welcoming and inclusive places.

Standards and guidance
Find relevant standards, guidance and professional information to help you develop spaces that meet current expectations and future needs.

National and international trends
See what is happening in library design across the UK and internationally. Discover emerging approaches, new ideas and different ways of delivering library services through space.

Designing for reading
How do we create spaces that encourage reading, concentration, discovery and enjoyment? Explore approaches to collections, seating, lighting, acoustics and atmosphere.

Music, performance and culture
How can libraries accommodate music, performance and creative activity? Discover ideas for integrating music-making, rehearsal, performance and cultural activity into library design.

Accessibility and inclusion
Design spaces that work for as many people as possible — considering physical, sensory, cognitive and neurodiverse needs from the beginning rather than as an afterthought.

Sustainability and future flexibility
Libraries need to change. Explore approaches to sustainable buildings, adaptable spaces and designs that can respond to changing services and communities.

Case studies from the sector
Learn from libraries that have already done it. See what others have tried, what worked, what didn't - and the thinking behind their decisions.

When you're responsible for a library service, you're not simply designing a building.

You're being asked to make decisions about:

• investment: are we getting the best value from the money we're spending?
• community need: does this space actually reflect the people who'll use it?
• service delivery: can the building support what we want the library to become?
• inclusion: can everyone use and enjoy the space
• sustainability: will it remain useful and affordable in the future?
• flexibility: can we adapt it as services and communities change?
• evidence: what can we learn from other library projects
• risk: what mistakes can we avoid before they become expensive?

Designing Libraries helps you answer those questions.