12 Physical Resources of Public Libraries

Dr Renu Thakur

 

1. INTRODUCTION

 

In this module, we will discuss the physical resources of a public library. A public library is a vital community space providing a safe and comfortable place for general public to access and use information, as well as to meet with others. Libraries provide space for users not only to read and study, but also to satisfy the information requirements of all categories of user groups. Libraries also provide their users with the opportunity to browse and interact with physical information resources that they can pick up and use. For this, the public library requires a well-designed building located at an appropriate site, proper lighting, suitable interiors, furniture and fittings and a suitable study environment.

 

2. PHYSICAL RESOURCES

 

Physical resources are a crucial aspect of the public library system. The physical resources play a key role in the attainment of the public library’s intended objectives. Physical resources aspire to be an innovative leader in sustainable library planning, design and facilities management. The physical resources of a public library are:

 

a)    Building

b)    Lighting

c)    Furniture

d)    Interior decoration

e)    Equipment

 

3. LIBRARY BUILDING

 

Library buildings play an important role in provision of public library operations. They should be designed to reflect the functions of the library services, be accessible to all the users of the community and be sufficiently flexible to accommodate new and changing services. Besides being easily accessible, they should be located close to other essential activities of the particular locality. Wherever possible, the library should also be available for community use, for example, for meetings and exhibitions and libraries in larger buildings for theatrical, musical, audio-visual and media performances. A well used public library makes a significant contribution to overall development of an urban area and an important learning and social centre and meeting place in rural areas. Librarians should, therefore, ensure that library buildings are used and managed effectively to make the best use of the facilities for the benefit of the whole community.

 

3.1 Planning a Library Building

 

While planning a library building, the librarian and governing body should consider the following elements:

 

 

·         Function of the library

·         Size of the library

·         Design features

·         Designated spaces

·         Accessible shelving space

·         Signage posting

·         The ambience of the library

·         Space for electronic and audio-visual equipment

·         Safety

 

5.2 The function of the Library

 

The library should have adequate space to implement the full range of library services that are consistent with the library’s strategic plan and that meet local area or national standards/guidelines. A public library cannot exist without a proper building, furniture and equipment. So the construction of a library building is of first and foremost step for planning a library or information centre. The building should be well equipped and must be free from dust, dirt, cobwebs and also should be water proof, theft proof and equipped with noise prevention measures, the provision of drinking water, heating and cooling machine (air conditioned), proper lighting, etc.

 

The basic aim of the design of a library building should be to achieve flexibility by using the modular system. The library building has to demonstrate a remarkable ability to grow, to adapt to changing conditions to meet new demands and to implement new technologies. If these aspects are taken care of then one need not give much weightage to the predictions made about their future expansion and existence. The space estimates for the library staff, documents, services, users and for other purposes, i.e., corridors, entrances, lobbies, toilet, etc. should also be prepared.

 

5.3 The size of the Library

 

The amount of floor-space required by a public library depends on such factors as:

 

·         Unique needs of the individual community

·         Functions of the library

·         Level of resources available

·         Size of the collection

·         Space available and the proximity of other libraries.

 

Because these elements will vary significantly from place to place it is not possible to propose a standard on the space required for a public library. Public library buildings exist to support library services needed by a community. Therefore, libraries must be designed to support a particular library’s service programme. There are, however, some traits that all libraries should have in common: libraries should be attractive, functional, efficient, flexible, barrier-free and expandable. Additionally, libraries must be designed around the needs of users but with staff efficiency in mind as expenditure on staff is the major expenditure of libraries.

 

Library services continually evolve. When planning a new building or expanding and renovating an existing one, the design must be flexible enough to accommodate changes in services and technology. Long-range planning that responds to identified community needs and anticipates change is an essential part of the design.

 

 

5.4 Interior of the Library

 

In a public library building, space is required for storing reading material, users to sit, read and consult material, staff activities, services and for amenities to be provided to users. Thus while planning the library building, provision for space for the following activities/divisions is to be made.

 

a)    Reception/Entrance Hall

b)    Reading Room

c)    Meeting/Conference/Exhibition  Hall/Room

d)    Children’s Reading Room

e)    Librarian’s Room

f)     Staff Rooms

g)    Acquisition Section

h)    Technical Services Area

i)      Administrative and Finance Section

 

5.5 Design of the Library

 

The need for an attractive library building should not be underestimated. A comfortable and welcoming atmosphere is a critical part of providing excellent, modern library service. Friendly and pleasant surroundings encourage most of the community to use the library and to regard it as an essential part of the community. Libraries that are inaccessible, shabby, dirty, and unattractive dissuade library users as unimportant. The design of every public library should encourage users to visit, use the library, read and learn.

 

 

5. LIGHTING

 

The two main sources of light in public libraries are daylight and electric light. Daylight does not involve any costs but in the library there are several areas where daylight cannot reach and there is need for electrical lighting. Proper lighting is very important for the overall success of a library. Good lighting design in library buildings is the result of both technical skill and art on the part of the library designer. This can be seen specially in the modern buildings where activities are diversified and the application of new technologies poses several lighting requirements.

 

6.1 Electric Light

 

The electric light fixtures used in the libraries are: fluorescent, incandescent, or high-intensity discharge light sources. Each of these sources have advantages and disadvantages, and librarians should be familiar with the basic characteristics of each source so they can participate effectively in the lighting design process.

 

Fluorescent lamps sources are most efficient (that is, they produce a lot of light for each watt of electric power they consume) and they have very long life. Direct and indirect lighting are often combined in suspended fluorescent fixtures

 

Special attention for providing lighting have to be given for certain areas of the library. These are:

 

· Service desks

 

· Conference/Meeting rooms

 

6.2 Exterior lighting

 

The exterior of the library is required to be well-lit. Appropriate and highly visible signs identify the library. Parking area, steps, ramps, paths, doorways, and potential hiding places should be adequately lit for safety and security. Specific lighting criteria should be selected to suit each situation.

 

 

6. LIBRARY FURNITURE AND FITTINGS

 

The library furniture and fittings can be made of metal, wood or plastic. The furniture and fittings can also be modular. This would be the case for tables, chairs, book racks, book trolleys, doors, windows, etc. Furniture of the library is of the type, size and in suitable quantity to meet the needs of the library’s various user groups. Seating, including study area and lounge furniture, is provided. The various facilities like library issue/return counter, card catalogue or OPAC and other divisions/facilities are located as conveniently as possible for both the public and the library staff. The library also has furnishings for using various technological resources.

 

A modern library needs the following specially designed furniture:

 

 

a) Book Racks: For normal shelving in general libraries, the standard racks or shelves made of either seasoned teak wood is found to be useful and functional. Book racks are used to store books, bound volumes of periodicals, reports and such other kinds of materials. Each individual rack is usually 180 cm wide, 195/225 cm high and 25/50 cm deep depending on whether it is a single-sided or double sided. The number of shelves in a rack is usually 5-6 depending on the high of the rack. A number of racks can be joined together to make one row. In general, the height of the unit book rack should be such that a person of normal height should be able to pick up books from top-most shelf. The popular kinds of stacks are:

 

i) Fixed Shelves with Double Row: They are normal fixed shelves where material can be arranged in double rows.

 

ii)  Hinged Stacks: Here two shelves are joined together with hinges on one side and one shelf fixed while the other is mounted in front of the hinges.

 

iii)  Rolling Stacks: These are metal stack units mounted on ball bearing wheel placed side by side.

 

iv)  Compact Storage: This system consists of units of three stacks, the centre row of fixed double-sided stacks at each side. This helps in increasing the capacity of the storage space.

 

v)  Multitier Stacks: This kind of stacking consists of stacks from the floor to the roof and it has become quite popular in very large libraries.

 

b) Periodical Display Rack: Double sided periodical racks are not recommended as the unit becomes too bulky. If necessary, it is better to place two single sided racks back to back. The following type of periodical display racks are generally available in the market.

 

i)  Step or Gallery Type: In this type, the periodicals are displayed stepwise. Here each step is about 2 inches deep and 6 inches high. The rack is usually 3 to 4 feet long and there are 4 or 5 steps and on each step 4 to 5 periodicals can be displayed. A single sided rack can thus display about 25 periodicals and a double- sided rack can accommodate about 50 journals. Two single sided racks can also be placed back to back, if convenient. Usually, frequently used periodicals are displayed on the racks. One drawback in this type of rack is that there is no room for back issues of periodicals.

 

 ii)  Pigeon hole type :This is the most popular type of display rack in libraries especially in the libraries subscribing to a large number of periodicals. This type of rack has two parts, one being a cupboard in the bottom and other pigeon holes at the top. The usual height and width are 7.5 feet by 6 feet. The depth is about one foot in the pigeon hole area and about 1.5 feet in the lower cupboard portion. The cupboard portion is for storing the back issues of the periodicals and the pigeon holes hold about 36 current periodicals. This type of display rack is very convenient and useful in the library but there is one disadvantage that is the periodicals cannot be displayed properly.

 

 iii)  Inclined Type: This type of display rack is considered to be the best type and is an improvement over the earlier pigeon hole type of rack. This is a box type of rack with horizontal shelves, each covered with wooden planks with an inclination to the shelf plank. The shelves can be partitioned into pigeon holes, each hole being provided with a wooden support for the periodicals. Here the inclined plank provides a better way to display periodicals, with the back issues to be stored in the space behind the inclined plank. Display space for 25 to 30 periodicals can be provided in one rack.

 

c) Catalogue Cabinet: The catalogue cabinet is a unit of drawers full of cards specially designed to hold the 5”X3” library cards, usually equipped with a metal rod holding the cards. These units are available in a wide range of sizes and used by libraries according to the size of their collection. These trays of drawers are placed on stands for convenience and ease of use by the users. Each tray can hold about 1,000 catalogue cards.

 

d)  Charging Desk/Issue Counter: In a public library, the charging desk is specially designed to serve the needs of the variety of users of the library. Depending on the size of the public library, the issue counter has to be designed. The shape of the charging desk is usually rectangular, U-shaped or L-shaped. In large libraries, 2-3 persons should be able to work simultaneously. The height of the counter should be 3-4 feet and if the library is not computerised, it should have sufficient space to store the records of issued documents. The counter should also have sufficient space to place documents returned by the users.

 

e) Reading Tables: Depending on the size of the library and number of users visiting the reading room of the public library, reading tables are to the provided. These tables should be large in size and without any drawers.

 

f) Computer Tables: For the public libraries that have OPAC terminals, computerised circulation control and other automated facilities, proper computer tables with drawers are required. For the library staff handling computer systems, computer tables are required in the technical processing division. For the other staff of the library, common office tables are used.

 

g)  Chairs: Chairs are required for the users in the reading room, for OPAC terminals, for the library staff and other visitors coming to the library. The specifications of the chairs, however, may vary.

 

i)  Newspaper Stands: As most of the public libraries subscribe to newspapers, separate newspaper stands are required. They are usually made of wood, metal or plastic with a height of 3 to 4.5 feet high and broad enough to hold and open newspaper to enable users to read it easily.

 

7. INTERIOR DECORATION

 

Public library’s interior decoration requires detailed planning as interior designers have to be aware of the needs of the library patrons before planning the design. Attention has to be paid to the ambience of the public library as it has to provide a physical setting for the library service that is attractive and inviting to the public.

 

It is important for designers involved in library interior design to be aware of the ambience that the library must convey to its visitors. Most of the public libraries in India appear to be very sterile and uninviting for many people, especially the younger users. The interior designer must use their knowledge of construction and design along with their marketing skills to design a library that can bring in all ages and compete with the modern facilities.

 

The areas of the library to be focused are lighting, signage, flooring, ceiling, walls, windows and acoustics. Public library interior design involves designing for different age groups, people who are there for study or research purposes and people who just want to relax with reading material and read newspaper. Everyone must easily access all products and services offered by the library. Work areas for staff must be ergonomic and functional. Areas for children should include hands-on-play areas and quiet reading areas for parents and children. The entire facility should be modern. The designer will need to include areas for computer use as well.

An important aspect of library interior design involves the selection of furniture. The furniture must be durable and comfortable. If the library has a set budget, the designer will need to pay close attention to it when selecting furniture. Interior designers or architects can select standard furniture and then add a custom feature to it to fit the needs of the library design project.

 

8. ERGONOMICS

 

People working in libraries perform numerous manual tasks, such as shelving books and maneuvering book carts. These tasks can put stress on the back, shoulders, arms, hands and wrists, and can increase the risk of repetitive stress injuries.

 

Besides this, working long hours on a computer may result in some form of ergonomic problems. More and more library professionals are suffering from backache, neck-ache, sore wrists, arms, and legs, and eyestrain which are all symptoms of ergonomic problems. Ergonomics is a discipline that extends across all aspects of human activity. It is also known as human factors/human engineering, and is the design or modification of the workplace to match human characteristics and capabilities. Ergonomics was developed as a consequence of problems presented by new work systems. It was developed through the same processes that led to disciplines like industrial engineering and occupational medicine.

 

In present day libraries, the most prevalent problems are poorly-designed seats, stress at workforce, awkward posture, and exposure to computer screens on a regular basis without protectors. Senior library professionals are all the time faced with balancing efficiency and productivity with safety and comfort. Good ergonomic assessment and remedial design can ensure both. Every workstation should be designed with both the worker and the task in mind, so that work can be performed comfortably, smoothly, and efficiently.

 

 

10. LIBRARY EQUIPMENT

 

As modern public libraries have to be multifunctional, kinds of equipment is acquired for various activities. This is besides the reading materials and library furniture. Equipment required by the libraries is usually manufactured specially for library use. The library equipment also includes the standard office equipment. However, we are here discussing some types of equipment found in a public library.

 

a)    Filing and Record Cabinets

 

b)    Photoduplicating equipment

 

c)    Computer Systems and related equipment

 

d)    Miscellaneous Equipment

 

 

a) Filing and Record Cabinets

 

Cabinets for filing various type of materials like card catalogues, pamphlets, newspaper clippings, patents and standards, microforms, disks and magnetic tapes are required.

 

Verticals filing cabinets with pull out drawers are used for correspondence and other files.

 

Pamphlets, standards and patents are kept in specially prepared pamphlet boxes of various sizes and shapes with side or top openings.

 

Periodical records, if maintained manually, are in kardex or a linedex .

 

b) Photoduplicating Equipment

 

The present day libraries and their users have a lot of dependence on multiple copies of documents.

 

Photocopier is the most popular equipment these days for duplicating material.

 

c) Computer Systems

 

During the last few years, growing demands for having new and sophisticated approach to information access has led to the extensive use of computer based systems. Computers are very common these days in every type of organisation including the libraries.

 

Computers are available from various companies and in configurations depending on the memory capacity. However, every computer system has a system unit or the computer proper, a monitor like a television screen and a key board. Besides these, most of the computers with INTERNET facility are available for easy information access.

 

Much of the typing work in the libraries is being replaced by word processing packages. The modern computer systems these days are available along with printers, scanners and fax facilities. Most of the libraries presently are automated or in the process of being automated. In such libraries, the collection is bar coded and thus a bar code reader is required.

 

d) Miscellaneous equipment

 

Besides the various kinds of equipment mentioned above, other equipment available in many larger/special libraries are also required. These are:

 

i. Bulletin board

 

ii.Television and DVD player

 

iii.Projectors and projection facilities

 

iv. Electric stylus for writing on spines of the books

 

v. Vacuum cleaner for cleaning

 

vi.Public Address system for announcements

 

vii.Atlas stand

 

viii.Book lifts, Book Trolley, Kick step stool and Step ladder

 

 

11.  OTHER FACILITIES

 

Safety

 

Every effort should be made to ensure that the library is safe for the public and the staff. Fire and smoke alarms should be provided and security protection for staff and resources. The location of fire extinguishers and emergency exits should be clearly marked. Staff should be trained in first aid and first aid supplies be made readily available. The librarian in co-operation with the emergency services should prepare a disaster plan to be put into action in the event of a serious incident, for example fire.

 

Besides this, for safety of library material and other library property, the library should adopt various safety measures. There should be provision for guards or security personnel to guard the property of users as well. The library entrance and exit has to be watched all the time to prevent theft and mutilation of library material. The windows of the library building should be meshed to prevent unlawful passing out of library material.

 

Safety from dust, too much sunlight and water seepage is also required to ensure that library material are not damaged.

 

Parking

 

Many users travel to the library in own vehicles. For this,there should be sufficient parking space  either at or close to the library. Provision should be made for four and two wheeler vehicles There should be separate parking provision for the library staff. 

 

Wash Rooms

 

In the building of every public library, there should be provision for toilets – both for men and women. It is however, advisable to place the toilets a little away from the main library and be connected via an open space or a corridor. Besides these, there should be water coolers too installed so that users need not go out of the library for water while working or reading in the library.

 

Green Surroundings

 

It is advisable to have greenery or plantation around the library. This not only makes the library attractive but also lends grace to the place. Trees and plants around the library free the atmosphere from dust as air turns moist and makes the dust to settle.

 

Lifts/Elevators/Ramps

 

The public library entrance should have ramp to assist the disabled users. Libraries that occupy two or more floors should provide lifts/elevators that are close to the library entrance and that easily accommodate wheelchairs.

 

12. SUMMARY

 

In this module we have discussed the various physical resources of a public library. The physical resources of a public library include the building, interior and exterior of the library, various activity areas, lighting, furniture, equipment, interior decoration and other amenities. Building plans should be prepared so that they are adaptable to meet the requirements of future technologies. The library building should provide space to house a full range of library services consistent with the library’s comprehensive strategic plan.

 

The public library building has to comply with building, fire, safety, sanitation and other applicable

government and legal requirements. There should be proper  budget allocation for various physical

resources and provision for the maintenance of the building, library collection and equipment. Lastly,

the above mentioned aspects are to be taken into consideration keeping in view the number of users,

variety of users and their requirements with regard to access, convenience and comfort.

 

 

References

 

  • Lechner, Norbert. Heating, Cooling, Lighting: Design Methods for Architects. New York: JohnWiley & Sons, 2000.
  • McCabe, Gerard  B.,James  Robert  Kennedy.Planning  the  Modern  Public Library Building. Santa Barbara:Libraries Unlimited, 2003.
  • Dewe, Michael: Planning Public Library Buildings: Concepts and Issues for the Librarian. Burlington: Ashgate Publishing Ltd., 2006.
  • McCabe, Gerard B., ed. Planning for a new generation of public library buildings. Westport: Greenwood Publishing Group, 2000

 

Did you know?

 

Ben Franklin and the members of the Junto created a library and put together their ideas to writing books themselves. It did not turn out as planned, however, Ben initiated the idea of a “subscription” library, as what is today the Library Company of Philadelphia created in 1731.

 

Interesting facts

  • Connemara Public Library, the State Central Library of Tamil Nadu caters to the needs of all kinds of book lovers. This mammoth construction also deserves a very special attention. The stately building is built in Indo–Saracen style and it is very rare to come across a building of this type in the present day context. Hundred years after its construction, the buildings still continues to evoke awe and respect in us when we just look at the marvelous construction.
  • http://www.connemarapubliclibrarychennai.com/aboutus
  • Ergonomics is an applied science that coordinates the design of devices, systems, and physical working conditions with the capacities and requirements of the personnel. In personnel working in public libraries, various tasks can put stress on the back, shoulders, arms, hands and wrists, and can increase the risk of repetitive stress injuries. The information related to ergonomics can reduce the same to a great extent.
  • Effective use of day light in public libraries leads to reduction in energy consumption and makes the library feel more human and less institutional. However, uncontrolled day light may cause glare and can damage sensitive materials.

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