Rum for viden, væren og vækst - Forskning - IVA

Abstract
Abstract
This master’s thesis Space for knowledge, dwelling and growth - The impor-
tance of architecture in making use of libraries deals – as indicated in the latter part of
the title – with the function of architectural design in relation to making use of libra-
ries.
The thesis opens with a revisit to three significant public library buildings of the
past century. Introduction of public access to the collections in the early 20th century
necessitated focus on interior design of the library room. With inspiration from espe-
cially The United States and Great Britain public libraries would henceforth be estab-
lished in independent buildings. Following the historical revisiting is a discussion of a
number of circumstances recognized as being of importance to postmodern library
buildings often referred to with the buzzword ‘Iconic libraries’.
Using this theoretical framework the architecture and interior design of a spe-
cific iconic library is analyzed. The analysis takes its point of departure in three differ-
ent approaches as to how architecture, design and interior setup influences the user
and three room analyses are presented. By viewing the library as an urban dwelling,
features relevant for this purpose are identified. These features have to do with room
classification, room quality and an interpretation of the architecture as framework.
The thesis concludes that the architectural staging of the iconic libraries – in so
far as it successfully fulfills the analyzed aspects – is seen to offer the user an aesthetic
experience. Utilization of the physical space can be enhanced and it can act as an in-
formal convening place between work and home - and simultaneously attract new
types of users. Architecture alone however does not justify the physical library. And
one has to take into consideration that building iconic libraries may conflict with the
idea of the library as democratic place for all.
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