For those of you who were unable to attend Camille Andrew’s program on library space design at the STLS Annual Meeting, I thought I would provide some information from her presentation.
User Study Methods
Camille discussed various methods for getting feedback from patrons on your library space. One idea was to have individuals provide a sketch of their ideal space design (below image courtesy of Camille’s presentation, complete with waterfall).
Photo diaries were also discussed. For example, have library patrons take a picture of their favorite or least favorite space, a preferred solo or group space, or something they don’t think should be in the library. Another sugesstion was to do some usability testing. For example, get furniture on a trial basis and have patrons test and give feedback (e.g., via a survey).
Key Takeaways
Both group and private spaces are essential.
Dont’ forget ambience (colors, lighting, nature, etc.)
With regards to furniture, think in terms of variety, comfort and mobility.
Start small and make incremental changes.
Listen to your library users!
Slides from Camille’s presentation are available here: http://www.stls.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Andrews-STLS-presentation-Oct-2016.pdf
