Buildings for Books

Functionally and esthetically compelling solutions for library building and spaces today that work for all users. Librariesare spaces for learning, discovery, and also for interaction. Theirarchitecture is currently the subject of much discussion, as the demands onthese cornerstones of modern civilization have changed enormously since theyhave had to meet the requirements of the new multimedia and digital age. Thelibrary as an institution underwent a real image change from an introvertedknowledge repository to a globally networked information provider andcommunicationmediator. The architectural expression of this expanded and constantly evolving profileof requirements makes library construction extremely multi-layered and complex.But this is also precisely the source of enormous potential for bold designsand ingenious aesthetic concepts. Whether involving new buildings, conversionsor extensions, this volume shows the diversity of this building task with itsinterplay of state-of-the-art technology and cultural demands.