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Redesigning the College Library Building, 2014 Edition This 220+ page report looks closely at the capital spending plans and building renovation/construction policies of academic libraries, predominantly in the USA and Canada. The study covers capital spending and space allocation plans with highly detailed data on recent library spending and future plans for the construction or renovation of library cafes, seating space, lighting, atriums, classroom space, information commons and other technology-oriented spaces, group study space, storage space, collection space, rooftop space, offices, meeting spaces and auditoriums, entrances and exits, restrooms, gardens and other outdoor spaces, artwork, windows, space and facilities for special collections, performance space, space intended for library applications for specific academic departments and other forms of library space and special features. In addition, the report looks at other forms of capital spending such as plans for library furniture, workstations,information technology and more. The study also presents extensive data on sources of funding for renovations and new construction as well as data on how renovations have been received by the target audience. Redesigning the College Library Building, 2014 Edition also examines special purpose investments in energy saving technology, enhancements to natural light and soundproofing, among others. Data is broken out for public and private colleges, by size and type of college, and by college tuition level.

"In an increasingly digital world, libraries are surplus to requirements, right? According to the Voices for the Library campaign, more than 10 per cent of the UK's public libraries are currently at risk of closure by their local authority, and hundreds have been shut down in the past two years alone. For universities, however, both modern and historic libraries are at the heart of campus life. A new book, Reflections: Libraries (published this month by ROADS Publishing), has collected 44 images of the most iconic library buildings, and it includes some inspiring photographs from some of the world's best known higher education institutions."

"Designing Libraries The centre for library design and innovation: a resource for library planning and design, a database of library buildings and a marketplace for services."

"As an essential department at a higher education institution and an informal learning space, little is known about how academic libraries contribute to student learning on campus. The Olin Library sought to learn the role of library space in our users' learning. We surveyed users about their learning behaviors in a specific space prior to a scheduled renovation and then in the same space after. We wanted to determine how the renovation changed users' perceptions of their learning behaviors in that space."

One of the most interesting innovations is the introduction of a 'Fab Lab', as well as a new Business and Information Hub to support local businesses. The 'Fab Lab' is believed to be the first of its kind in a UK public library, though a growing feature of libraries in the US and other countries. The Fab Lab, or fabrication laboratory, is a digital workshop equipped with laser-cutters, 3D printers and scanners, 3D milling machines, electronics bench and programming and design tools, where users can "make almost anything".

Image gallery of award winning library interiors from the International Interior Design Association (IIDA)

"designboom's TOP 10 libraries of 2013 includes a diverse range of projects, featuring works from renowned offices alongside young and emerging practices. "

"'American Libraries' celebrates this year's new library designs, featuring stunning architecture, teen tech areas and flexible, collaborative spaces."

Dr. Lesley S. J. Farmer,Professor of Librarianship,California State University, Long Beach This paper analyzes the state of learning spaces as they impact library education. Specifically, it reviews the literature about current trends in designing learning environments that facilitate e-learning. The report also lists cited examples of good practice in contemporary school library e-learning spaces.

This is a useful blog which discusses library design from a user (human) perspective, rather than just bricks and mortar. The focus is on improving the user experience, through working in partnership with them and marketing services effectively.

This looks a promising resource, which starts from the premise that library design should start with customers.

A guide with associated case studies and a photo library on new build and refurbishment in the sectors including sustainable approaches and business incubation spaces.