Libraries and Learning Resource Centres is a comprehensive reference text examining the changing role and design of library buildings. Critical evaluations of international case studies demonstrate the principles of library design. Available for the first time in full colour, the second edition of the work focuses particularly on the important question of access and design in public libraries. Updated case studies and technical data allow the professional architect to use the book directly in planning library projects. Providing guidance on balancing the needs of the collection and the user, Libraries and Learning Resource Centres will be of value to all professional architects involved in library planning.

This comprehensive reference examines the changing role and design of library buildings, using a critical examination of recent examples from around the world. The authors, who represent the views of the architect and the client, outline the history and changing typology of the library. They examine the new national, public, academic and specialist libraries using numerous international examples including Sri Lanka, Vancouver, Johannesburg, Paris and London. New design advice and technical data is presented to illustrate the many approaches that designers have taken in creating a building with many diverse functions. The book concludes with speculations about the future of the library as a place for storing, reflecting upon and exchanging knowledge. Libraries are undergoing fundamental change as new technology liberates the library from its dependence upon the written word. Increasingly libraries are seen as learning resource centres with a smooth interface between computer-based access and traditional book and journal material.

Focuses on library organization, bibliographic instruction, the relationship between librarians and teaching faculty, the structures of learning resource centers, and the future of community college libraries. ...a strong collection...anyone interested...should not only enjoy most chapters, but should find a great deal of useful, practical information... --COLLECTION MANAGEMENT

Includes subject area sections that describe all pertinent census data products available, i.e. "Business--trade and services", "Geography", "Transportation," etc.