Libraries have become more popular than ever, serving as essential community hubs where people can gather, work, learn, and engage with a variety of resources. Aaron Cohen Associates, LTD recognize the evolving role of libraries, and how spaces enable the community to build productive relationships.
Library Facilities Plan
A successful library facilities plan requires a user-centric approach, flexible and multi-purpose spaces, a focus on collaboration and social interaction, special consideration for students and families, integration of technology, community engagement, and a commitment to adult accessibility and inclusivity. Please join on on September 15, 2023 at Steelcase NYC and help your library continue to serve as vibrant and indispensable spaces within your communities. Take a look at our article on the Built Pedagogy Concept – programming and design of a library can have a direct and tangible impact on the learning that takes place within it.
Library Programming
Library programming plays a significant role in engaging the community and informing the design process. For more research on library planning take a look at SCUP (society for colleges and university planners). It is an association for facilities planners and researchers). Basically, the Society for Colleges and University Planners includes architects, planners and designers. They are professionals who help design library buildings and spaces. Over the years, we provided workshops to support the principles of library design and development.
Aaron Cohen Associates, LTD approach ensures that library spaces and programs align with the needs and aspirations of the community they serve. It is important to understand users and their needs when establishing a library facilities plan.
Digital Facilities
In today’s digital age, library space planning takes into account the complexity of user relationships. Libraries have evolved beyond just book repositories. They serve as dynamic community centers that provide a range of spaces to meet various needs. Libraries can offer solutions for organizations beyond traditional education and museums, catering to independent learners and fostering community building.
Architectural Planning
Drawing upon architectural space planning and programming guidelines, along with leveraging modern technologies, Aaron Cohen Associates LTD help create exceptional and inspiring library buildings. Contact our library consultant to start combine thoughtful design with inclusive programming.
Creating a new form of public building that combines the graceful architectural heritage of libraries with today’s available technologies is an exciting task for any community leader. Here are a few programmable elements that will help you establish flexible and adaptive spaces that inspire joy and serve as valuable resources for our communities.
Design
The architectural design should embody the elegance and timeless appeal of traditional libraries while incorporating modern features. A balance can be struck between grandeur and accessibility, creating a welcoming environment for people of all ages. Incorporating natural light, open spaces, and flexible layouts will foster a sense of comfort and exploration.
Technology Integration
To embrace the available technologies, the library can provide various digital resources alongside traditional books. This can include interactive displays, e-books, multimedia materials, and access to online databases. Emphasizing connectivity, the building should be equipped with robust Wi-Fi, charging stations, and computer terminals, ensuring that visitors can easily access digital information.
Collaborative Spaces
The library can prioritize spaces that encourage collaboration, fostering engagement and interaction among visitors. Designated areas for group discussions, workshops, and presentations can be incorporated, along with adaptable furniture to accommodate different activities. These spaces can be equipped with audiovisual equipment, enabling multimedia presentations and virtual conferences.
Children’s Area
Recognizing the importance of early education, a dedicated multi-visual children’s area can be created within the library. This space can be designed to be colorful, interactive, and imaginative, inspiring a love for learning in young minds. It can include age-appropriate books, educational toys, storytelling corners, and multimedia resources tailored to children’s interests and needs.
Community Engagement
The library always needs to engage with the local community, offering library programming workshops and events that cater to diverse interests builds funding opportunities. This can include library consultant seminars, lectures, architectural designs and cultural workshops. Our library programming encourages collaborations with local schools, universities, and organizations. Certainly, we can help enhance the library’s offerings and foster a sense of community ownership.
Inclusive Accessibility
Accessibility is a consideration in the design and operations of the library. This involves providing ramps, elevators, and other facilities to ensure that people with disabilities can navigate the space comfortably. The traditional Carnegie libraries are not easy to access. We help provide assistive technologies, such as lifts, and elevators, to make resources accessible to individuals with ADA issues.
Sustainability
Designing the library with sustainable features may minimize its environmental impact. Incorporating energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and green spaces may contribute to a greener and more eco-friendly building. Our library workshops and programs focus on sustainability where possible to align the library with the values of the community.
Contact Aaron Cohen Associates, LTD. We have a rich architectural heritage of libraries integrating them with modern technologies and community resources. We provide communication plans to community engagement, enabling the library to come together and build a future. Here, the library can become a vibrant hub of knowledge, inspiration, and connection. It can be a place where people of all ages can gather, explore, learn, and collaborate, ultimately guiding them toward a better life.
