Search

Purpose: The article presents a practical example of the space optimization in the school library at the Simon Gregorčič Primary School Kobarid, finished in 2016/17. It describes the historical development of the school library and lists the main reasons for the optimization of the place where the school library has been situated since 1998. By means of the design elements and the principles used before and after the place optimization, it explains the positive effects of the optimization on the place and the users alike. Due to the unsuitable spatial library design, a more ambitious vision for the quality solution of the basic spatial problem is also proposed. Methodology/approach: The article transparently describes the contextual, visual and practical viewpoints of the space optimization in the school library. Results: The processes and results of the optimization have been analysed and summarized for the first time. It is evident that the described school library space optimization can be listed among the examples of good practices in renovating the school library premises in Slovenia. Research limitations: The optimization processes were designed and executed on the basis of impartial library space flaws and subjective evaluations of the well-being by the employees and library users alike. However, although the effects of the optimization can be scientifically measured, there are no analyses of the users' well-being before the optimization process. Therefore, the results cannot be objectively compared. Originality/practical implications: The article presents the actual library space optimization and its effects on the users' well-being, as well as promotes the considerations of the qualitative and considerate design of learning and learning-supportive environment in Slovenian schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The library building process involves a design phase, a permission phase and a construction phase. The library as a construction work must meet seven basic requirements for construction products and specific requirements according to the purpose, type, size, performance, predicted impacts and other building characteristics. There is a lack of literature in the field of library design in Slovenia. The planning of library buildings does not follow the current trend of library use and often reflects in poor indoor environmental quality. The purpose of this article is to design the morphology of library, which is intended not only for storing and borrowing of library materials, but also for facilitating diverse user activities. Methodology/approach: In respect to the purpose of the paper, the Slovenian and international literature sources, requirements and recommendations on indoor environmental quality were systematically reviewed. The method of engineering design by Morris Asimow was upgraded, according to the specifics of the building, its' users and materials. Results: The proposed design process was carried out in six phases: 1. determination of purpose; 2. geomorphological, climatic and location conditions; 3. library geometry and orientation; 4. definition of active zones and required conditions; 5. determination of functional zones, composition and crossings; 6. support operation systems. The objective of the planning process is a holistic approach that involves librarians and users. Research limitation: A systematic literature review was carried out only in the Slovenian territory without including the legal acts of other European Member States. The design process was not tested on the actual library but only on other public buildings. Originality/practical implications: The results are useful for construction or renovation towards the stimulating conditions for visitors and employees, and for the protection of library materials. The design complexity requires a multidisciplinary approach based on collaboration between professionals and users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]