Webinar Video: Planning Library Spaces

Posted: 06-02-2020

This webinar introduces the key factors in planning library spaces, followed by a case study of the recently completed and much acclaimed Student Centre at University College London (UCL).

The first talk by Karen Latimer — Library Design Consultant — covers the planning stage, the construction phase and post-occupancy evaluation. Topics such as preparing the brief/programme, visits and surveys, user needs, envisaging future services and challenges along the way are discussed.

The second talk by Ben Meunier — Director of Operations at UCL Library Services — looks at how the Student Centre at UCL addressed the needs of students and aligned with the Strategic Plan for the University. He discusses how the vision translated into reality, key requirements, the role of the library in the digital age and the feedback on the finished project.

The webinar also covers the challenges inherent in managing a wider range of services under the “Student Centre” umbrella and will outline UCL’s approach in trying to meet those challenges. Through the webinar, participants will:

  • Learn about the various stages in the process of planning library space;
  • Understand the importance of aligning plans for major projects with wider institutional or national strategy;
  • Be aware of the benefits of user engagement in developing libraries which meet or exceed expectations;
  • Know about the tools available to help with the planning process, and where to go to for ideas and further information.

The webinar is hosted by Sylvia van Peteghem, chair of the LIBER Architecture Group.

The webinar was recorded and can be viewed on YouTube. The slides are available on Zenodo.