History of the Library Building

October 02, 2015

What are the major developments in design in library buildings since the earliest
library buildings in the Ancient World? Developments should be discussed from the
standpoint of function and form of the building.
The major developments in library building design are consequences of the growth in
rational thought (Edwards and Fisher, 2002). In part this is due to the change in education
during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries which changed the library and museum
as building types. It was during this time that the library became a free standing building
that was self-contained. Before then, libraries were attached to museums and
considered as add-ons to that building. These major changes evolved as the book
became less of an object of treasure and more an object of use (Edwards and Fisher
2002).
The first libraries were buildings that combined library and museum. Antiquities
such as Alexandria were private buildings that consisted of open areas with vaults as to
secure the items within. During the 6th-13th century libraries were located in
monasteries. (Religious) Books during this time period were organized in a cloister
system with book cupboards. 13th-16th library space was linear and narrow with a
lectern system which allowed for open shelves for chained books. This type of space
forced the reader to stand while reading . The 16th and 17th century brought about a
linear space with astall system of organizing books. This type of system integrated
shelved partitions and seating arrangements. As explained by Edward and Fisher, during
this time period books were not normally read in the library but in alcoves set in nearby
cloisters. It is during the 17th and 18th century that we see a circular and rectangular
building or dome and cube. This brought about a wall system with perimeter
bookcases. The adoption of bookcases revolutionized the concept of space in
libraries (Edwards and Fisher, 2002) and changed the relationship in favor of the book.
18th -20th century libraries consisted of a reading room system with attached book
galleries. This type of library required an open planed center with enclosed perimeter
rooms with specific elements of the collection. With this type of space function was more
important than meaning. And finally, in the 20th century library space has evolved into
a large open plan. This open plan system allows for the integration of open shelves and
PCs.
Do you agree with Khans planning considerations (pp. 9-13). Anything you would
like to add? Feel free to contextualize here for a specific library type as suits your
interest.
I do agree with Khans planning considerations; the author makes excellent points
when it comes to library planning for now and the future. One hot topic is the future of
ICT in libraries. Khan states that ICT can no longer be seen as an add-on but must be

an integral part of the service. The rapid changes and advances in technology requires
that we plan for the future needs of the patrons. It seems that every few weeks theres a
new way to communicate via devices or applications. In order to work properly devices
require constant upgrades and updates (Apple). Integrating ICT in our libraries will insure
that patrons have the technology resources they need and want. This may include a virtual
library 24/7, being able to access the librarys website through your mobile device, or
teaching someone how to turn on their laptop. ICT will allow patrons to choose from a
large number of services, making their local library a valuable resource.
Another great point made by Khan is service integration. This kind of change benefits
both library staff and customers. Professional librarians and information workers are
increasingly working across a range of subject areas and disciplines (Khan, 2009).
Therefore, it is essential that library staff members are cross-trained in all departments.
Khan explains that patrons benefit from the consolidation or clustering of services in
several ways. First, patrons can get assistance from one point of reference instead of
several. Second, consolidation can lead to the availability of more services during the
evening hours. Its important that evening patrons have the same resources and tools as
those who come in the morning or mid-afternoon.