Library Buildings around the World

create a new model, and to create a warm and welcoming environment that nevertheless sat comfortably with the 'gritty' Flinders
Lane context.
The City Library represents the fusion of many different uses in the creation of a new integrated model. The City Library offers
vibrant community spaces for everyone to enjoy including a cafe, gallery, information technology labs, and a conference venue,
meeting rooms for community groups to hire; Gallery and projections; free Internet and word processing. These are all spatially
woven together with more traditional elements such as book stacks, reading rooms and quiet study areas, organized around a central
public space, housed together with the CAE learning spaces, fusing the public and institutional into a socially sustainable
community. (COX)
Day Bukh Architects, Sydney, NSW – Australia
http://www.daybukharchitects.com
Libraries:
Central Library Asnæs – Denmark 2007
(see also: Fogh & Følner Arkitektfirma A/S, Lyngby – Denmark)
Royal Academy of Fine Arts Library, Copenhagen – Denmark
(see also: Fogh & Følner Arkitektfirma A/S, Lyngby – Denmark)
DesignInc, Melbourne VIC – Australia
http://www.designinc.com.au
Libraries:
Campbelltown Public Library, Campbelltown (Adelaide), SA – Australia 2010
Client: Campbelltown City Council, Value $ 9.000.000
DesignInc completed an extensive $9M refurbishment of Campbelltown City Council’s municipal library. Unveiled in September
2010, the new library resulted in an immediate increase in visitor rates by up to two thousand people per week.
DesignInc transformed the 1980s building into a contemporary facility which is now reflective of the shift in community use of these
spaces as borrowers look beyond traditional use and seek additional comforts.
Campbelltown Library’s Manager, Ursula Hickey said the brief for the project was very clear.
“We didn’t want great innovation or grand ideas; we simply wanted a library that would cater for what is now a very mixed use by a
wide range of demographics. It had to work for customers of all ages and the result has delivered that and more,” she said.
“For me, the youth area is the highlight. DesignInc created a dual offering, where young people can study for a few hours and then
relax and interact with friends in a safe and comfortable environment, has proved very popular. It’s testament to the success of the
overall design.
“From day one DesignInc were great to deal with and we worked really well together to continue operating throughout the
refurbishment. They clearly understood the brief and were always available and quick to respond.”
The library has more than doubled in size and incorporates a number of well-defined areas for users of all ages.
The children’s area is overlooked by a striking feature – a story tree which was created by Showtrek under the art direction of
DesignInc for children’s story-telling. High quality audio-visual elements produce 14 different effects on the tree, from starry nights
to bright pink ripples, with a range of music and sounds.
A number of other features have ensured the new library acknowledges modern demands yet still caters for traditional users. These
include large audio-visual and computing sections, an outdoor reading area and a number of community meeting rooms accessible
long after the library has closed.
A strong community connection has been maintained and is evident throughout the library. The local history archive is housed in a
room purpose-built to fit an original Council board table and a large double-sided wall hanging – created by local residents – is now
well displayed for all to enjoy.
Sustainability was a key focus of the project. Much of the existing building was re-used and an adaptable layout means the library
will suit changing needs over the next two decades.
The overarching approach to this project was to create a central hub for the local community. The library now provides significantly
improved facilities and a welcoming environment conducive to use by people of all ages.
The marked increase in visitor rates is a strong indication of the project’s success. Delivered on time and under budget, the project
has affirmed DesignInc’s capabilities in the creation and execution of projects of social relevance. (DesignInc)
Donovan Hill, Brisbane, QLD – Australia
http://www.donovanhill.com.au
Libraries:
State Library of Queensland, South Brisbane, Brisbane, QLD – Australia 2006
Donovan Hill + Peddle Thorp Architects in Association
Cultural Precinct, Donovan Hill + Peddle Thorp Architects in Association Client: State Library of Queensland, Project Value: $76
million, Status: Completed December 2006, Environmental Initiatives: No rating tool applied at the time however: - passive design
principles applied to envelope, - providence of materials and off-gassing were vigorously pursued - carpet supplier offered product
stewardship - low energy lighting solutions utilised throughout - chilled beam and other inovative mechanical solutions utilised.
Awards:
- 2007 RAIA National Award ‘Sir Zelman Cowen
Award for Public Architecture’
- 2007 RAIA National Award ‘RAIA Emil Sodersten
Award for Interior Architecture’
- 2007 RAIA State Awards (Queensland) ‘FDG Stanley
Award for Public Buildings
- 2007 RAIA Regional Awards (Brisbane) ‘Building of
the Year’
- 2007 RAIA Regional Awards (Brisbane)
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