QUILLBLOG

A new genre of libraries

In an effort to attract younger patrons, a compact, pop culture-oriented library – complete with an adjoining coffee shop and video-game stations – is set to open this fall is Langford, B.C. From Shannon Moneo’s article in the Globe and Mail:

“This branch is taking elements of leading-edge library design,” said Don Butcher, executive director of the Canadian Library Association. “It’s a neat approach.”

Due to open Oct. 17, the 2,000-square-foot library, in a new building just off Langford’s main street, will use novel methods to reach patrons. Dubbed an “express” branch, it will focus on providing speedy in-and-out service.

At the $370,000 Goudy branch, an inside doorway will open to a coffee shop so that patrons can buy a latte, saunter into the library and sip while they check out the pop fiction.

In terms of borrowing material, the focus will be on current and popular books, CDs, DVDs, and video games.

With library use in Canada levelling off during the past five years, efforts are being made to draw the younger, digitally oriented demographic who no longer toddle along with their parents, [Butcher] said.

Just in time for back-to-school, the minds of young adults in Langford are racing over how to tell their parents convincingly that they’ll be out late…at the library.

More on libraries going after the teen set here.

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