A transformation using Opening the Book's discovery layout concept – new sightlines, dynamic flow and zoned spaces that achieved a 99% positive response from the public.
This much-loved library has a beautiful building but the interior had lost its impact. The attractive window area at the back was cut off from the rest of the space and largely used for storage. Tall, dark shelving was densely packed, too tight for wheelchairs to pass. The graceful rotunda was used for computer desks because of electrical connections but this blocked the space and spoiled the rhythm of the architecture. Everyone knew what wasn’t working. The challenge was to create a library that would meet the aspirations of an ambitious Library Board and a demanding community of users, who successfully fundraised to get the library updated and wanted to see results.
The new plan from Chamberlain Architects addressed the problems of the building, opening up the back area, increasing power and data, creating new spaces for individual study and a makerspace. But the large central space still had a traditional feel in draft designs, with shelving set out in formal straight rows and nothing to define areas for different activities and audiences.
Then the Chief Librarian, Cathy Simpson, heard Rachel Van Riel give a presentation on Opening the Book’s new concept of discovery layout at the Ontario Library Association Conference. She immediately recognised the appeal of the new approach and could see its direct relevance to Niagara-on-the Lake Library.
Opening the Book were appointed to design the library interior and built creative partnerships with everyone involved – the library team, the Board, the architect, the local community. Everyone bought into the concept of discovery layout. Out went straight rows of shelving and in came Opening the Book’s propeller and arc shapes to open up the sightlines and bring a dynamic flow to the space, while still respecting the symmetry of the building.
Opening the Book worked with us to tailor the discovery layout to our users and our building. They worked hard to get the best customer flow and took great care to ensure the layout accentuated the building’s architectural features including our central rotunda and surrounding pillars, large window overlooking the garden and fireplace.
Nine months after opening day, the library reported a 99% positive response rate from the public, visits were up, loans had increased, customer satisfaction was high, workflow for staff was good, and the new spaces were well used.
We really love the fact there is solid research and observation of user behaviour behind the design of the shelving and layout. We also appreciate the training and consulting Opening the Book provides to library staff; we learned a lot about how to merchandise our collections. The discovery layout is based on a different philosophy of library service from traditional layouts, so staff training is key to its success.
Browse through the Gallery to see how our design created different zones in the library space - express visit or long-stay; chatty or quiet; help or independence; private or social; youthful or traditional. Small events and group activities can take place in different parts of the library while the rotunda space has mobile shelving to enable large events.
