It is important to have a good understanding of the overlapping responsibilities of digital librarians and architects in library design projects. Digital librarians are typically responsible for managing the library’s digital collections and services, including selecting databases, designing custom APIs and cloud services, and overseeing the development of the library’s digital infrastructure. Architects, on the other hand, are typically responsible for designing the physical space and layout of the library, including the layout of collections and services, as well as the design of any custom built objects or features.
Responsibilities of Librarians and Architects
In some cases, the responsibilities of digital librarians and architects may overlap, particularly in projects with a strong focus on technology or digital services. For example, a digital librarian may be involved in the selection of technology and other digital resources to be included in the library, while an architect may be responsible for designing the layout of these resources and ensuring that they are incorporated into the overall design of the library.
In projects with little or no major construction, some of the responsibilities of architects may fall under the purview of interior designers, such as the design of built-in furniture or millwork. Overall, the key is to ensure that the library design is cohesive and meets the needs of all stakeholders, including patrons, staff, and other users.
Digital librarians and Architects
Digital librarians and architects often have overlapping responsibilities in library design projects, particularly when it comes to the integration of technology and digital services into the library. Some specific areas where their responsibilities may overlap include:
Selection of technology and digital resources: Digital librarians may be responsible for selecting and acquiring technology and digital resources for the library, while architects may be involved in determining how these resources should be incorporated into the physical layout of the library.
Design of custom APIs and cloud services: Digital librarians may be responsible for designing custom APIs and cloud services for the library, while architects may be involved in determining the physical layout and design of these services and how they fit into the overall design of the library.
Overseeing the development of the library’s digital infrastructure: Both digital librarians and architects may be involved in overseeing the development of the library’s digital infrastructure, including the design and implementation of new systems and services.
Design of the physical layout of the library: Architects are typically responsible for designing the physical layout of the library, including the placement of collections and services, while digital librarians may be involved in determining the specific technologies and digital resources to be included in these areas.
Basically, our library consultant provides both digital librarian services and architectural programming. Our programming is clearly defined and we provide effective communication and collaboration between these two roles to ensure the success of the library design project.
