Libraries have evolved from quiet reading havens into dynamic, multi-use spaces that serve the community in numerous ways. According to the Library Journal, “Libraries have been reinventing themselves for well over a decade… no longer just repositories of information, libraries have morphed into full-service community centers that aim to meet a wide variety of civic and social needs.”
Modern library shelving is crucial to this transformation, enhancing function, adaptability, and engagement in community-driven spaces. The right shelving can significantly influence the atmosphere of a library — and allow for changes to meet evolving community needs.
Designing with Aesthetic and Function in Mind
Renovations offer a significant opportunity to redesign library spaces with improved aesthetics and functionality. The Dayton Metro Library, with a presence in Cooper Park since 1888 and its current facility built in 1963, underwent such a transformation. In 2017, the county rebuilt the nearly 55-year-old structure into an open, airy three-story space designed to hold more books and invitingly showcase them.
The challenge was redesigning the space to highlight the library’s historical significance while introducing modern aesthetics and functions. Static shelving laid out in a zig-zag pattern on the first and second floors echoed the area’s canals, street patterns, and bridges, with sloped canopies adding a dramatic, modern feel.
The redesigned space was well-received by both staff and the community. Jayne Klose, now-retired Community Engagement Manager for the Dayton Metro Library System, shared, “Whereas before they had things stored on standard shelving in the basement, today the items they cherish are stored safely, securely, and fully protected against damaging environmental contaminants. As for the shelves out on the floor? The sloped shelving is my and many others’ favorite view in this beautiful building.”
Creating Adaptable Spaces
Modern libraries engage with patrons in creative new ways, beyond lending books. Libraries have expanded to allow patrons to check out tools, fitness equipment, and more. And as the Harris County Public Library discovered, adaptability is vital to engagement.
Patterson Pope outfitted the Harris County Public Library with 14 repositionable library carts, six-foot, and nine-foot in length, allowing it to create a flexible and adaptable space. Static shelving affixed with casters created movable sections that enable staff to rearrange shelving easily or move them out of the way for large gatherings. The resulting flexible space has drawn new patrons and created a place suitable for individuals and groups.
Keith Schuermann, Regional Director of the Troup-Harris County Library System, noted, “Much to our pleasure, we’ve seen circulation increase by 20 percent, door count increase by 10 percent, and we’ve also significantly increased the number of patrons we can accommodate for special events.”
Enhancing Accessibility and Engagement
While libraries should be open and inviting, the old Law Library at Georgia State University was anything but. Its ground-floor space spanned two buildings with few windows and long, dark aisles. The library needed a renovation to transform it into a more appealing and accessible environment that would encourage academic engagement.
The new law library included nine powered systems on two floors with four static shelving areas. This design created additional capacity in less square footage, allowing for new seating areas around the stacks. High-density storage helped create open, light-filled study areas — now popular working spaces for students.
Kristina Niedringhaus, Associate Dean for Library, Information Services, Legal Tech, and Innovation, shared, “We now have these amazing views. What’s more, the high-density shelving allowed us to preserve the outer areas near the windows for study and collaborative space. The light and the openness of the area create a much more inviting space.”
Revitalize Your Library Space with Modern Library Shelving
Modern shelving solutions can transform your library into a vibrant, functional, adaptable community space. As libraries continue to evolve, innovative storage solutions will be essential in creating spaces that foster learning and creativity. If you’re looking to enhance your library space, contact a representative from Patterson Pope today.
