+44 (0) 1273 386849How to design a school library that students will never want to leave
The design of your school library plays a pivotal role in how pupils and teachers engage with it. A well-thought-out space can inspire curiosity, foster a love of reading, and create a welcoming environment for everyone in the school community.
Whether you’re setting up a library from scratch or reimagining an existing space, the layout, accessibility, and overall feel of the library are crucial to its success.
The library isn’t just a storage room for books; it’s a dynamic, multi-functional space where learning happens. From group projects to independent reading, it should cater to various school and community activities while remaining flexible and adaptable. The first step? Start with a clear vision!
Plan ahead: Share your vision in the planning stage.
Designing a school library is a collaborative effort. Ideally, you’ll work with school leaders, teachers, students, and even a professional designer to shape the space. However, preparation is key.
When you come to the table, bring a clear vision of what you want the library to look and feel like. Some people find a real or virtual mood board, or a 3D design helpful at this stage. Remember, a picture or a sketch is worth a thousand words.
Start with a wish list
Before the first meeting, create a list of what your library needs versus what would be nice to have. Distinguishing between essentials and extras helps you prioritise your budget and space. Here’s an example:
Non-negotiables:
- Shelving
- Signage
- Returns box
- Stationery storage
- Library trolley
Nice to have:
- Quiet reading space
- Soft flooring
- Tables, chairs and beanbags
- Computer screens
- Murals and artwork
- Display shelves and notice boards
💡 Top Tip: Try online floor planning tools like Floorplanner to map out your ideas. Start with a simple room layout, including doors and windows, then play around with furniture, shelves, and decor. Most tools let you share your designs as a 3D walk-through, making it easier to refine your vision with others.
Finding inspiration
Inspiration for library design is everywhere. Blogs, YouTube channels, and Pinterest boards are full of creative ideas to explore. Don’t forget to tap into your professional network –sharing ideas with other school librarians can spark innovative approaches for your space.
How much space do you need?
In the UK, there’s no statutory requirement for schools to have a library. This means the size and presence of a library often depends on the school’s leadership. But if you are invested in your school’s success, you might be wondering how big your school library should be?
According to the UK government’s 2014 Area Guidelines for Mainstream Schools, a school library should measure at least 9m² plus additional space per pupil—0.05m² for each primary pupil and 0.12m² for each secondary pupil. For example, a primary school with 200 pupils, this works out to 19m².
Visualising the space
To put this into perspective, here are some possible layouts for a 19m² library:
- Square room: 4.36m x 4.36m
- 1:2 rectangle: 3.08m x 6.16m
- 1:1.5 rectangle: 3.56m x 5.34m
This is not a large space. It can feel awkward once you add shelves, tables, and seating. For instance, in my own design experiments, adding a librarian’s desk and minimal storage for library equipment quickly made the space feel cramped. If storage or admin tasks need to happen in the library, they’re worth factoring in early on.
Designing a welcoming environment
Your library should feel like a sanctuary – a place where students want to spend time. Here are some key elements to consider when creating a welcoming atmosphere:
Seating options
Different activities call for different seating arrangements. Incorporate:
- Relaxed seating: Beanbags, cushions, or floor mats for younger children.
- Group tables: Ideal for collaborative projects or group reading.
- Quiet corners: Provide individual desks or nooks for independent study.
Soft furnishings can also help dampen noise, creating a calmer environment for everyone.
Creative displays
You don’t have to stick with boring wall shelving. For instance, I found a wonderful tree display which would look great in a nature themed primary school library – pair it with toadstool seating, textured animal cushions and flooring, and an eye-catching mural for a “wow” effect.
Creative displays will allow you to highlight new books, seasonal themes, or student-recommended titles. Consider interactive elements, like a board where pupils can add their own suggestions. What about illustrations and reviews? Allow students to personalise the space through artwork, book recommendations, or co-creating displays.
The possibilities are endless.
Colour and lighting
Colour and lighting can significantly influence how a space feels. Choose hues that inspire or calm, depending on your goals. For example:
- Pastels: Soothing and ideal for small spaces.
- Primary colours: Energetic and stimulating for younger pupils.
Or create a clever combination of the two; bold primaries can be overwhelming, whilst pastels can look washed out. For lighting, aim for a mix of natural light and artificial options. Adjustable desk lamps, LED strips on shelves, or fairy lights in reading corners can add a warm touch.
Making accessibility a priority
An inclusive library is a successful library – and successful learners. UK Schools are legally obligated under the Equality Act to make reasonable adjustments for disabled students, and this will clearly apply to library spaces too.
Physical accessibility
- Furniture layout: Keep pathways wide and uncluttered for wheelchair users.
- Seating options: Include height-adjustable desks and wheelchair-friendly tables.
- Entrances and exits: Ensure doorways are accessible and consider automatic doors.
Visual accessibility
- Signage: Use large fonts, high contrast colours, and consider incorporating braille.
- Accessible Software: Ensure your library software is optimised for users with diverse accessibility needs.
- Lighting: Avoid harsh glare; modern lighting fixtures offer a wealth of choice so you can give your library exactly the lighting people want.
- Book labelling: Use clear, colour-coded systems to aid navigation and browsing.
Inclusive resources
- Stock audiobooks, large-print editions, and dyslexia-friendly texts.
- Partner with your school’s IT team to introduce assistive technologies like screen readers.
- Build a collection that reflects diverse cultures, characters, and abilities.
Training your staff to understand accessibility needs and work assistive technology ensures that no student is left out.
Conclusion: Why the library space matters
A well-designed school library isn’t just a physical space; it’s the beating heart of the school. It’s where literacy blooms, curiosity is sparked, and every student feels safe, welcome and inspired. By thoughtfully planning your library’s design and prioritising accessibility and inclusivity, you can create a space that transcends its walls, becoming a hub of creativity, collaboration, and discovery.
When done right, a school library becomes more than a place to borrow books—it becomes a place students never want to leave. It invites them to explore, learn, and connect, making it an unforgettable part of their educational journey. Start designing today, and watch your library transform into a space that inspires pride and fosters a love of learning in everyone who steps through its doors.
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- Planning
- Setting Up the Space
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- Check Lists
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Why does the design of a school library matter so much?
A: The design is crucial because it shapes how students and teachers use the space. A well-planned library can inspire curiosity, foster a love of reading, and serve as a welcoming hub for learning activities. Ultimately, a thoughtfully designed library invites students to stay, explore, and engage more deeply with educational resources.
Q2: How do I begin planning a new library design or a redesign?
A: Start by sharing a clear vision of what you’d like to achieve. Bring mood boards, sketches, or 3D mock-ups to discussions with school leaders, teachers, students, and possibly a professional designer. Prioritise must-have elements (like shelving and signage) over “nice-to-have” items (like murals or special seating) to guide decision-making.
Q3: What’s the best way to find inspiration for my library’s look and layout?
A: Explore blogs, YouTube channels, and Pinterest boards dedicated to library or classroom design. Connect with other school librarians for real-world insights. Virtual floor-planning tools can also help you visualise different layouts, furniture placements, and decorative elements before making any physical changes.
Q4: How much space do I actually need for a school library?
A: There’s no legal minimum in the UK, but a useful guideline is to start with at least 9m² plus an additional space allocation per pupil—0.05m² for primary students and 0.12m² for secondary students. This ensures enough room for shelving, workspaces, and comfortable seating. Early planning can help you avoid feeling cramped later.
Q5: How can I make the library feel welcoming and comfortable?
A: Incorporate varied seating options—cosy corners, group tables, and soft furnishings—to suit multiple activities. Consider creative displays that highlight featured books or seasonal themes, use calming colour schemes, and install proper lighting. Engaging, student-friendly design elements help create an environment where students want to spend time.
Q6: How can I ensure the library is accessible for all students, including those with disabilities?
A: Start by keeping pathways clear and ensuring wheelchair access to shelving and seating. Use high-contrast signage, braille labels, and good lighting to support visually impaired users. Offer audiobooks, large-print materials, and assistive technologies to create an inclusive space. Accessibility considerations must be integrated from the start.
Q7: We have a limited budget for our school library. What should we prioritise?
A: Invest first in essential elements: sturdy shelving, clear signage, comfortable seating, and quality lighting. Once you have the basics, consider enhancements like soft furnishings, decorative murals, and additional technology, including library management system for schools. A priority-based approach ensures you maximise impact without overspending.
Q8: Do we need professional help, or can we design the library ourselves?
A: It depends on your time, budget, and skill set. Many schools plan successful redesigns by consulting with staff and students, researching online, and using basic design tools. However, if you’re aiming for a more complex transformation, partnering with a professional designer or experienced librarian can streamline the process and yield better results.
Q9: How can we keep the space flexible for future needs?
A: Choose adaptable furniture that can be easily rearranged, and opt for modular shelving and portable displays. Keep some open areas available for group projects, presentations, or special events. By planning for versatility, your library can evolve with changing educational approaches and student interests.
Q10: How do I know whether our new library design is successful?
A: Look for increased footfall, higher book circulation rates, and more frequent use of the space for group activities. Gather feedback from students and teachers—ask what they love, what could be improved, and what new resources they’d like to see. Over time, positive engagement and enthusiasm will confirm that your library is a place no one wants to leave.
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