What are the most important things a 21st-century library should do with its space?

CHICAGO — A cutting-edge text capturing the insights and practical ideas of leading international librarians, educators and designers, “Better Library and Learning Spaces: Projects, Trends and Ideas,” published by Facet Publishing and available through the ALA Store, addresses the critical question of how libraries can maximize spaces through design. Editor Les Watson and his contributors offer a “creative resource bank” that introduces key concepts, draws together opinions and encourages new ways of thinking about library learning spaces for the future. A must-have text for those involved in the design and development of library and learning spaces, as well as LIS students and professionals getting to grips with the importance of library design, this book:

• describes features of library space around the world through a selection of focused case studies, Identifying common directions and ideas as well as highlighting country and regional diversity;
• looks at the why and how of library space, covering topics such as contextual factors, current ideas in library space development and the creative design of new spaces;
• examines how library spaces are adapting to new forms of learning, digital literacies and technological fluency;
• looks to the future of libraries and their learning spaces, through the perspective of librarians, learning specialists, academics, architects, an interior designer, a furniture designer, a management specialist and others.

Watson is a well-respected educational advisor and consultant on learning spaces. Previously, as pro-vice chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University, he led the landmark development of the Learning Cafe, REAL@Caledonian and the award winning Saltire Center.

Facet Publishing, the commercial publishing and bookselling arm of CILIP: the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, is the leading publisher of books for library and information professionals worldwide. ALA Store purchases fund advocacy, awareness and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide. Contact us at (800) 545-2433 ext. 5052 or editionsmarketing@ala.org.