Abstract

An approach to the marketing and promotion of library spaces is presented. While library marketing has been extensively studied, much like library design, few studies have been devoted to the marketing of physical spaces. This can be done in four ways: using marketing tools for library design; adapting the library’s spaces to improve the user experience; taking advantage of the presence of users to carry out market research; and using an architectural image to promote the library. Finally, the need to take care of the appearance and visual appeal of the library is presented.

Abstract

The irruption of technology has caused deep changes in library design. Digital collections free up space previously occupied by paper, while new services and commons are created. Librarians and architects do not have enough benchmarks or standards to guide the redesign of spaces caused by these changes. The Danish concept of the “four spaces”, introduced in the Model Programme for Public Libraries, could be useful for this purpose in public libraries.

Abstract

This review of major developments in the library world in 2010 analyzes the impact of the global economic crisis through budget cuts to library services, with some examples from the Anglo-Saxon world in contrast to the Spanish case, and its adverse impact on the supply of services, collections and investments. On the contrary, we see continued and rising demand, mainly focused on collections and digital based services. The digitization of collections and the incorporation of electronic books are consolidated as the central elements of the operation and services of all types of libraries.

Abstract

The restrictions experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic have changed the use of library spaces, potentially affecting their design and even the need for them. We still lack conclusive data to know if library usage will recover. However, professional opinions note that, although digitization will be reinforced, face-to-face attendance will continue to be necessary. There are no examples of libraries planned according to the experiences of the pandemic, but everything seems to indicate that previous architectural trends have been strengthened or will continue to be so.

Abstract

Library design is no longer centered on the storage of books. Libraries are designed around people and their needs. However, it seems that the physical book continues to be widely used in a representative way, even precluding the use for which it was intended. The book is used as an iconographic symbol that shows that a building is a library. This symbolic function seems to stem from the need to highlight a building’s status as a library. Thus, its librariness is assured thanks to a symbol rather than its function, but this is not necessarily a bad thing.