ACCOMMODATING EMERGING TRENDS IN LIBRARY SPACE USAGE FOR SUSTAINABLE LIBRARY DESIGN: A REVIEW.

Abstract

A library can be best described as a store house for knowledge, ideas and information and a place where people acquire same for their personal, family and societal benefit. In contemporary libraries users acquire these through both the traditional (printed materials) and digital sources in addition to which other collaborative and cultural facilities are made available. With advancement science and technology, changes are coming into libraries and there is a need for them to be properly accommodated either at the design stage or remodeling stage for the library to meet these current trends. This study therefore aims at establishing the emerging trends in library design and finding out ways a futuristic library typical of a modern society can be put in place to take care of the needs of today and that of the future while enhancing sustainability. Literature review and case studies of several contemporary libraries were carried out to find out these emerging trends in library space usage. The findings of this study include technology integration, inclusive libraries, flexible spaces and green libraries. Security of library materials, library staff and library users and their belongings also helped to enhance the sustainability of the libraries. It will therefore be recommended that the library should have relevant facilities and planning and design strategies that will enhance security and sustainability through self service facilities, maker shift spaces, smart design features, passive security features, flexible spaces, fund generating facilities e.t.c. The libraries should be planned to be able to adapt to allow for the ever-changing user needs and innovations and variety of functions now