Users, technology and space in libraries in the digital age

Abstract

This thesis is a user research study of emerging issues in the use of libraries as public spaces and as information repositories in the digital age. Till recently strong physicality was attached to the library with the only access to its information resources being visiting the library premises. The availability of the Internet, digital documents and wi-fi has brought about unprecedented changes in the function, use and operation of libraries today. The environment of evolving technologies is bringing about a variety of new user practices that creates ambiguity for the future of the library as an institution as well as an architectural space. This study attempts to identify various issues in the use of library spaces today through the means of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Four libraries differing in the technology and quality of space provided have been chosen as case studies. The shifting physical form and meaning of the library's architectural space and its implications for the design of future libraries will be examined. A set of recommendations for better user experience in present and future library spaces will be part of the research.