Library Reboot for the Mid-21st Century

Description: This presentation will help pull the shroud of mystery off library design by briefly exploring the history and roots of 20th century libraries through the interplay of technology, space design, information access, and services that continue to drive the design of Mid-21st century libraries. Beginning with a broad overview of the history of libraries and key aspects of library design from ancient to modern, we will survey programmatic elements and design concepts that inform contemporary library design. We will explore programmatic themes from physical asset management approaches, to partnering, space activation, and cross programming in both public and academic libraries to frame the discussion on rebooting library design for the Mid-21st Century to create legible, permeable, transparent, and connected library buildings.

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the webinar, attendees will be able to:

1. Attendees will understand the historic context of libraries and the broad arc of how information and technologies impact the design of library facilities.
2. Attendees will gain an awareness of 21st century library physical asset management trends and digital information access trends to inform the conversation for their next library building project
3. Attendees will be equipped to discuss with their internal library stakeholder team and with design professionals current building program trends to position their library for success in the mid-21st century.

Who Should Attend: Public and academic libraries & librarians considering or beginning a library building facility programming, renovation, or construction project to base conversations in both the history and current trajectory for library facilities.

Presenter:

Barak Yaryan has worked on a wide range of academic and public libraries throughout the United States with over 13 years of library design experience. Barak specializes in systems thinking and conceptual integration. His experience in cultivating, managing, and sharing a design vision within the entire team results in successful library programming, master planning, and building projects. Barak has a deep portfolio in library projects with clients including Duke University, McGill University, the United States Airforce Academy, the University of Miami, the University of North Carolina Greensboro, Texas A&M University San Antonio, Sam Houston State University, Virginia Commonwealth University, the City of Houston, and the City of Texas City. Barak is involved with professional activities including the American Library Association Core Planning and Design Committee and presenting at the November 2018 Texas Society of Architect’s Annual Conference “Fostering Houston’s Community: Designing Spaces Between the Built Environment.”

Tech Requirements