Lecture Notes on Libraries and Modern Architecture

Introduction

• Speaker: Smit Hammerlassen (SHL), a Copenhagen-based architecture studio.
• Presentation covers libraries and their evolution in design, intended for public engagement.
• Quick overview: 250 slides in 50 minutes.

About SHL

• Founded in Denmark, strong presence in Copenhagen and Aarhus, and in Shanghai, China.
• Staff: 150 architects (30 in China).
• Emphasis on Scandinavian architectural thinking - democratic architecture that focuses on user experience.

Danish Architecture Policy

• Launched in February 2014 by the Minister of Culture.
• Key principle: "putting people first."
• Focus on democratic architecture that engages with people’s needs.

Libraries: Evolution from Collection to Connection

• SHL has designed over 15 large-scale libraries globally.
• Libraries are transitioning from collection-oriented spaces to socially-oriented environments.
• Importance of engaging children and adapting to technological advancements.

Historical Context of Libraries

• Example: Royal Library of Alexandria (3rd century BC) vs. the Royal Library in Copenhagen (opened 17 years ago).
• Modern libraries aim for openness and inclusivity.

Royal Library of Copenhagen

• Importance: Open to public; serves as a cultural center.
• Features: Public plazas, café, concert hall, exhibition space.
• Symbolism: The building opens up to the sky, representing universal knowledge.

Academic Library in Aberdeen, Scotland

• Design aimed at public engagement.
• Features: Public café, exhibition space, and an atrium encouraging chance encounters.

The Concept of the Modern Library

• Libraries as "third spaces" between home and work.
• Importance of libraries in providing non-commercial public spaces, similar to parks or city halls.
• Libraries must adapt to support diverse user needs and encourage exploration.

Four Spaces of the Public Library of the Future

• Experience: Designing spaces that provide engaging activities.
• Empowerment: Users can create and re-create spaces.
• Involvement: Engaging users in library activities.
• Innovation: Encouraging exploration and knowledge sharing.

Case Studies of Libraries

1. Halifax Central Library, Canada

   • Open, inviting design with integrated public spaces.
   • Extensive public consultation guided the design.
   • Aims to increase annual visits from 250,000 to 2 million.

2. Ningbo Library, China

   • Designed for 8,000 visitors daily.
   • Focused on creating a large open meeting space.
   • Innovative designs include large book stacks that facilitate movement and interaction.

3. Aarhus Library, Denmark

   • Mixed-use building design integrating library and citizen services.
   • Concept of creating a free zone for user interaction and community engagement.

4. Doc One Library, Christchurch, New Zealand

   • Aims to support the cultural redevelopment after the earthquake.
   • Focus on community engagement and connection to local heritage.

Cultural Center in Greenland

• A building for local people and Inuits from across the northern hemisphere.
• Designed to reflect the unique landscape and culture of Greenland.

Relationship Between Libraries and Art Museums

• Both serve as gathering spaces for community interaction and cultural enrichment.
• Example: Aarhus Art Museum designed to connect with the city's cultural venues.

Conclusion

• Importance of libraries as communal spaces in modern society.
• Future libraries must continually adapt to meet the needs of their users and foster community connections.