Isabella Borda joined the Portland studio as a summer design intern, participating in the firm’s robust internship program that includes conducting an in-depth research project. Isabella is a fourth-year undergraduate architecture student at Cal Poly. Read more from our 2024 internship cohort and all our past intern research projects here.
Library Design History
When designing future libraries, the history of library design must first be understood. Changes in library design have occurred in tandem with evolving technologies, beginning with clay tablets, hand-inscribed manuscripts, printed books, and in the last few decades, e-books. For most of human history, the ability to access written knowledge was limited to male, scholarly-elite classes. With increases in book production, public education measures, infrastructure, and digital information, access to information has exponentially increased.
The way in which information is accessed has also shifted. Digital collections are now being used more than physical collections. While many argue this paradigm shift means libraries are becoming obsolete, the opposite is true: libraries are needed more than ever. Libraries bridge the gap for people who may not have internet access, devices, or a safe space to read and learn. The availability of digital information access is an opportunity for libraries to encompass many more roles than before.
Defining Third Places
Third place theory was developed by sociologist Ray Oldenburg in his 1989 book “The Great Good Place.” If the first place is home and the second is work/school, then the third place is where people go in their free time to relax and socialize. Some examples include libraries, parks, coffee shops, salons, and more, with libraries being one of the few free “third places.”
Third places operate as local, neutral grounds where people have little obligation, where everyone is of equal status, and where similar interests can meet and create a local culture. These places benefit physical, mental, and community health by creating a resilient neighborhood structure of care and connection.
Updating Third Places
Since Oldenburg published his theory, technology has blurred the boundaries between home, work, and third places. As more people are working remotely, third place and second place have hybridized. There are changing needs for what a third place should accommodate to adequately serve communities. Third places are no longer strictly about socializing, but rather providing a place for many types of activities, such as remote work or creative activities, and people increasingly want lower degrees of social interaction. These places are no longer about being low-profile and unpretentious; people seek more dramatic, immersive experiences that are spectacular and beautiful.
Updated third place criteria can be used as a guide when designing public spaces. This series of questions asks: is it a point of gathering, accessible and inclusive, acting as a refuge, adaptable, and a social leveler?
Current Library Design Practices
Libraries today are focusing on providing multi-functional, user-oriented spaces. New resources, such as computer access, skill training, and learning programs, help patrons navigate an increasingly complex world. Libraries are designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind. Reading books and studying are prominent uses; however, libraries are making space for community programs, meeting rooms, makerspaces, and other unique functions. Finally, libraries are emphasizing inclusivity, belonging, sustainability, and the continued importance of learning.
Library Futures
Libraries will continue to evolve with the changing needs of society. As designers, we have the opportunity to design libraries that can grow and expand as needed while maintaining the purpose of the institution as a place of learning and community. Four design principles can serve as reminders to look to the future while understanding the past and present roles of the library.
Internship Experience
My internship afforded me the time and resources to do a deep dive into the world of library design. I had the opportunity to learn about the community engagement efforts the firm conducts and understand what the community needs most from local libraries. I worked on a variety of renderings, diagrams, and graphics for ongoing projects at the firm. Throughout my time here, I received valuable insight into the process of working with public clients. I also gained a greater understanding of interior design through my work on library interiors and a graphic wall. As I continue into my last year of my degree, I will carry forward the skills, sustainable priorities, and community-centered ethics I learned here at Hennebery Eddy.
Research References
- ALA Annual – Designing Libraries with Diverse Communities in Mind
- Architectures of Knowledge: Designing the Library
- Libraries as the Spaces Between Us
- Libraries Respond: Services to Poor and Homeless People
- Our Vanishing Third Places
- Reflection of Paradigm Change in Information Technology to Library Architecture
- To Make a Great Third Place, Get Out of the Way