Libraries: A New Future

Work Rest Play & Libraries

For several years, Work Rest Play have been advising, consulting and collaborating with libraries, librarians and architects to supply and install stunning library environments.  Our knowledge and expertise has allowed us to forge excellent relationships with countless libraries throughout the UK and Ireland.

Throughout this time we have noticed that the needs, requirements and desires of libraries and their users have evolved and changed.  Several reasons can be associated with the changes which have occurred in the library environment such as the emergence and advancement of technology and a greater need for a social aspect.

The Traditional Library

New Providence, NJ Library

Belfast Central Library

In times gone by libraries were often percieved and possibly misconcieved as quiet, old fashioned places which are visited by people for the sole purpose of reading or study.  The appearance, both exterior and interior, of a number of libraries certainly adds credence to these perceptions.  For example, as you can see above the beautiful Belfast Central Library is very much a traditional building while the interior of several libraries is akin to that of New Providence, NJ.  These traditional appearances serve the purposes of libraries very effectively; to a point.  It is argued that in the 21st century that libraries should have a more modern and contemporary feel maybe even to the extent of a coffee shop vibe.

The Modern Library

Wexford County Library  (installed by Work Rest Play) An inviting, modern space

The Futuristic New Library in Calgary, Canada.

Libraries which enhance the community, provide social interaction, have a welcoming and inviting feel, incorporate the latest technological advances and are places people can visit to carry out other activities as well as reading.  This is the remit of the modern library.  Some have gone as far as to say that libraries should be comparable to coffee shops in terms of their facilities and vibe.  Modern library architecture is reaching ground breaking levels on a yearly basis as you can see from the latest library designed in Calgary.  Wexford Library is a fine example of a library which maintains a focus on reading while enhancing the user's expereience through modern, contemporary and technologically advanced surroundings.

Gorey Library  (Installed by Work Rest Play) Libraries are now marketed as more than just a place to read in, they are your space to interact, enjoy and socialise with other users in a welcoming environment.

Potential Pitfalls

Drogheda Library  (Furniture by Work Rest Play)  Immersed in Books

While there can be no argument that advancement in offerings to users, development of technology and the creation of a more social experience have and will ultimately enhance the user experience of each person who enters a modern library, it has been argued in some quarters that this focus can and will detract from the real reason that people have previously and still should visit a library: to get lost in books.  This is an interesting point to consider: should libraries be social spaces which encourage interaction and collaboration or places we go to immerse ourselves in literature and fiction in a solitary sense? Arguments can be made for each and there is no doubt they will be but from our experience and in our opinion, a happy medium between the two is the perfect scenario for a modern library which wishes to retain that sense of magic in visiting the library.

How we achieve the ideal scenario!

                                        Tullamore Library - Installed by Work Rest Play

The libraries we have installed in the past and which we are installing at present are perfect symbols of the point just made.  For example, we provide spaces and furniture which facilitate private and individual reading but also have social areas which encourage interaction and collaboration.  Our modern and contemporary furniture creates an excellent, practical and comfortable environment for all users whilst maintaining the majesty of the library tradition.

2015 & Beyond

The future is an exciting prospect for libraries in the 21st Century.  When you consider the advancements in technology, the potential advancements in technology, the diversification of users' needs and the investment in the industry there is no doubt that the next few years we will see libraries coming to the fore in terms of technology, interior and exterior design, progression in what is offered to users and how a library is able to enhance not only users' experiences but also the local community in which it is inhabited.