How School Libraries Have Evolved

School libraries have evolved greatly over the past decade as learners’ needs have changed. Once, libraries were very quiet places where books could be read in silence or swapped to take out for home reading, but the emphasis was on peace and noise was actively discouraged.

But the atmosphere in libraries has changed fundamentally with the ways in which people now want to use these spaces. To stay relevant and in use, libraries have needed to evolve to recognise these changing expectations and needs. These needs are being reflected in the evolution of education architecture delivered by specialists such as www.quattrodesign.co.uk/sectors/school-education-architects.

Changes in School Libraries

This particularly applies in school libraries where learners need to have spaces to collaborate, create, and work in groups to deliver projects, as well as to discuss individual work. Rather than being places of silent reflection, libraries have become collaborative access points for different resources, flexible workspaces and a more relaxed approach to learning

Library spaces are becoming more flexible in their design, with spaces that can be adjusted for group work, breakout areas, displays and other forms of activity. It moves away from structured desk and book display areas and creates more energised, exciting spaces with plenty of light, colour and inspiration.

The Changing Role of Technology

Technology is a huge driver behind the evolution of education architecture. Students now view libraries as places to access a range of different technologies, databases and enhanced learner resources. This means that libraries are no longer solely about books, and have instead become engaging access points for a range of print and digital media.

This truly changes the way in which libraries are used, and the ways in which they need to be designed to reflect their value as modern, engaging and multifunctional spaces where learners can create, collaborate and work together. Arguably these new directions make libraries more exciting and valuable places than ever before and entice learners to use them, ensuring that they remain relevant and valuable for a new generation, one that is increasingly online.