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Restructuring the Branch Library

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Most libraries started out as simply buildings to hold books. As things changed over time the programme of the library became unstructured. New programmes became add-on’s; collections became fragmented. The purpose of the library became confused. This project aims to restructure the branch library, align the programme and at the same time create new social areas within the space. By separating distinct elements like the book collections, multimedia etc, into their own areas navigation becomes easier, more user friendly. Additionally, social gathering spaces have been slipped between these programmes in a way that both connect and emphasis’s them.

Movement is determined in three ways. First is the direct route. An escalator connects the entrance lobby with the fourth floor book collections. People wishing to come in specifically for books can access the stacks immediately, and then choose their next destination. The second circulation is the point to point route. Two elevators allow people to move specifically from one floor/programme space to another specific floor. Those doing library research can utilize the second floor research and then move directly to a multimedia booth on the fifth floor. The last type of movement is the serial route. A central staircase that rises the height of the building forces users to move through each programme and social space. These various modes of movement are integral to the use of the building. Someone going directly from the ground floor entrance lobby to the stacks could then travel down the stairs to the reading space, and then take a lift to the sixth floor multimedia auditorium.