School libraries are central to a student’s learning experience. We believe that every school library should be a safe nurturing space where pupils can learn, create, research and share ideas.

Get in touch on 01923 774 242 to discuss your project, we'd love to help!

The layout of today’s library has changed considerably to accommodate the high demand for technology and the shift from libraries just being a quiet space to read to being a multi-purpose learning hub for both group and individual learning.

More and more libraries are focusing on the importance of a space which makes it fun and easy for students to connect, explore and learn. This means that in most libraries you will find reading nooks, breakout spaces and a range of options for seating and standing.

Booth seating with built-in power modules are popular and there is also a trend towards Face-out displays creating a more visually interesting display making it easier for younger readers to choose books.

What year groups will be using the library?

If the whole school will be using the library do you need a separate area for KS1 and KS2 which is at a lower height and feels more accessible to younger children? If space allows, it is fun to really play on the design of a library for younger students and make a bright and creative environment for reading.

For KS3 & KS4, you might want a more adult feel to help prepare them for further education.

How many books are going to be displayed in the library?

Research shows that fewer books well displayed will be more effective and get more frequent use than hundreds of spine-out books with no covers visible, but understandably this may not be practical for every library. Our consultants will be able to provide guidance on the amount and types of shelving required once they are supplied with book collection numbers.

You may want to consider a divide of fiction and non-fiction books, with fiction books located near study desks and non-fiction books near to relaxed soft seating areas.

How do you plan to use the library?

Will your library be used more as a book storage room where students select a book and move away or will it be used as a combined book storage and study/research room?

If the library will be used for research and study too, then you will need a variety of furniture including study desks and chairs and soft seating for informal research and reading.

The ability to change the layout depending on different needs is also important and breakout soft seating and mobile flip-top tables are an ideal solution as they can be easily re-configured.