libraryunderstanding+phase

Public Space- The Public Library


 * Research Statement**

In this project, it is my goal to explore the current role of the public library among local students and investigate the inner shortcomings or improvements of our current library system.


 * Background**

The term library as most people think is a place, or an institution where is a storage of books and other materials for studying and reading. It is an information center of language, history and culture. However, nowadays the library seems less dominant as before. We all know that the Internet is very powerful that almost every information can be found online. Many books have been also digitized and replaced to the web. The resources in the local library are limited. Sometimes people find it is more convenient researching information through Internet rather than spending time on looking for a single book in the library. People especially youngsters now more often use library just as study room or computer lab. Sometimes researching in the library is too time-demanding which delays the efficiency.


 * Critical Position**

First of all I would like to say a public space is a community where a lot of interactions and activities are happening. However, I wonder whether the public library is truly public? The whole space is fragmented to each private individuals or groups for their own purposes of utilization, and people usually would not join and interact with each other. Why? Thats because the lack of activities that will not engage people to participate. Therefore, in my opinion, I think it is important to establish a multi-used space for work, interaction and play; it is not only for engaging interaction as a community, but also keeping some traditional values, such as providing silent private areas for studying purposes. Also, improving the facilities in the library is essential for enhancing the quality of education, such as improving the way-finding signs and etc. The next generation of the library should pursuit the happiness of learning and should extend the mission beyond the storage of knowledge.


 * Data collection and analysis:**

Shortcomings:

-wayfinding signs/trouble finding where books are located -delaying in the circulation system (late returns, over-dues, needed book has been checked-out by others) -limited resources in one location -fragmented space and information -lack of activities that bring up socialization and interaction


 * Opportunities:**

(to establish a library for working, socializing and playing)

1.Fostering a community (mix of services) -job posting -lecture demos/tutorials -free training -career advise -social events

2.Engaging interaction (exchange dialogue,socialization) -hold holiday celebration/festivals -children playground(games) -out/in door exhibits -temporary art performance installations -in-house movie theatre, gallery, museum,studio -partnership with neighboring

3. Become public gathering places (public participation and sharing of experiences) -locate in center areas as destinations -convenient transit (TTC, parking lot) -establish a local representation of culture -multi-linked/multi-purposed areas (combination of theatre, gallery)

4.Offering esay access -ubiquitous communication system -unifying information system (electronic books, storing information in chips) -enhance human-computer interaction

download:
 * The Concept Map**

media type="custom" key="216549"
 * Visual Essay**

check out [|photos]
 * Photos**

[|Internet Public Library for Teens] [|Library as shelter for homeless] [|The Seattle Public Library]
 * Resources:**