The London Library (Library Design, 1)

Over the course of the past couple of months, I have been expanding my areas of thought in libraries to include library design. On occasion, and with no real schedule, I will share with you some of my favorite library spaces and perhaps talk some about why I like them, as well as why, as a librarian, I feel that they are effective.

Our topic for today is the London Library, one of my favorite libraries worldwide. As a matter of fact, when Jen and I were overseas, we tried to visit, but they were closed. Alas. The London Library is part of a small group of libraries that many Americans see as odd - a membership library - meaning one must pay an annual membership fee (£395) to use (and check out) the library’s collection. The collection itself has more than one million items, with items dating from the 16th century to the present day.

However, let’s talk about what I think is the greatest strength of the London Library - its design. This morning, I saw this image of the new reading room at the London Library, and I knew I wanted to share it with you all:



This is the new Lightwell Reading Room, which opened today. I love the incorporation of the older architectural elements of the building, as well as the use of modern, sleek materials. Beautifully done. More important for the patron, though, is the wonderful natural and artificial light available, as well as the handy reference works on the shelves. I think (unless you already know the London Library) that you will be surprised by the other rooms:





As you can tell, the main reading room is very traditional English, but seems to be well-designed with the patron’s needs in mind - good lighting, comfortable work and seating areas, as well as important reference works close at hand. I don’t see a librarian nearby, though - leading me to ask if it is convenient for the reader to consult their librarian. However, it is a wonderful space, and it is indeed one of my favorite library spaces in the world.

Since you have now seen the reading room, let’s look at the stacks, just for fun:





And let’s conclude with a few shots of the exterior:



What are some of your favorite library spaces? Would you like to see it featured here? Why do you like that space so much? Please let me hear from you in the comments!

Sources:
Images:
http://www.londonlibrary.co.uk/press/General%20library%20images.htm (all images ©2005, The London Library. Fair use rationale: not for profit.)

Text:
London Library. (2010, January 25). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 14:51, February 15, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=London_Library&oldid=339954254