Books like Library design by Karen Smith

An inspiring tribute in text and photos to librarians and libraries in all fifty American states and Canada describes the diverse backgrounds and motivations of today's librarians and includes original essays by such contributors as Neil Gaiman, George R. R. Martin, and Paula Poundstone.

"Every decision you make affects how people experience your library. Aaron Schmidt and Amanda Etches count some 19 touchpoints--website, email, furniture, parking lot, events, newsletters, to name a few. Three elements are to be useful, useable, and desirable. Like three legs of a stool, missing any one will take you down. This book looks at the major checkpoints for user experience in a library, offering guidance on every facet, why it's important and how to assess your library's current status" --

Distilling hard fought wisdom gleaned from hundreds of successful library construction projects they've supervised or coordinated, the authors present this definitive resource on library architecture. With a special emphasis on avoiding common problems in library design, in a down-to-earth manner they address a range of issues applicable to any undertaking. From planning completely new library buildings to small remodeling projects, they offer specific how-to and how-not-to guidance. Packed with lists and headings to allow for easy scanning, this handbook: provides nuts-and-bolts guidance on the entire process of planning, design, and construction, including "snappy rules" summarizing each chapter; covers new construction, remodeling and expanding of existing buildings, and conversion of non-library spaces to libraries; explains how library buildings actually function as objects, and how that applies to library design; reviews typical design problems of existing libraries, and advises libraries on how to avoid creating dysfunctional buildings and spaces; shows how to collaborate productively with planners, architects, and contractors; discusses the technical needs of basic library spaces, including collection storage, user seating, meeting and conference rooms, craft rooms, study areas, service desks, restrooms, and staff workspaces; and includes careful consideration of technical requirements relating to lighting, electrical systems, security systems, elevators, staircases, and other areas. Library directors, staff, and planning professionals will want this handbook close at hand before, during, and after any library construction project. - Publisher.

The Library: A World History explores how library buildings, from the dome of the Library of Congress to Finland’s Seinäjoki Library, embody the cultures, wealth, and intellectual aspirations of their eras.

A visual exploration of 39 contemporary library projects worldwide, illustrating how modern architecture and digital technology are redefining public reading spaces.