The Next Chapter for Public Libraries: How Current and Future Trends are Shaping the Libraries of Tomorrow

Over the last few years, public libraries have transitioned from being buildings that only store and lend books to being fully featured community centers. While today's public libraries are still committed to sharing knowledge and providing easy access to books and other publications, they have transformed into spaces that offer 3D printing tools, Wi-Fi hotspot devices, and COVID-19 tests. As a result, libraries are now meeting places, maker spaces, centers for literacy, places for workforce development, and so much more.  

Since libraries serve specific communities, one size and one design do not fit all. The most successful public libraries are designed with people in mind and with the help of the community they serve. These libraries not only reflect the identity of the individuals using the space but also provide the staff, stakeholders, and users with a sense of identity and ownership of the library.   

As designers, we need to learn what makes the community tick. What is most important to those who use the library? How can the library serve the community best? Clark Nexsen's process is to work closely with the library staff, community, government, and other stakeholders through design charettes and interactive work sessions to develop their combined vision for their public library. With our activity-based programming method, we develop a library building program and an adaptable building design that allows for "no dark spaces," meaning spaces do not sit around unused. Instead, they have multiple, flexible purposes filled with library activities throughout the day.   

Current Trends  

Over the past few years, more and more libraries have been implementing the following trends to serve their communities better:  

Access to Technology:  

Technology has permeated all aspects of our lives. However, only some have access to computers or even the internet. Today, many libraries are helping fill that gap by providing access to the internet and the newest technology for all ages while advancing technology literacy skills with classes and workshops.  

Workforce development:  

Today's libraries focus on workforce development by providing meeting rooms, co-working spaces, and access to printers and scanners. Additionally, libraries offer resume writing training, classes on how to dress for an interview, and sessions on how to use new technologies.   

Community Center:  

Libraries serve entire communities and act as community living rooms, are performing arts venues, offer spaces for social interaction, or provide programming, classes, and workshops. As a result of the wide variety of uses libraries now have, they need spaces that can be interactive and loud, or intimate and quiet, while being warm, and welcoming. In addition to providing books to check out, libraries are increasingly providing technology like iPads, cameras, fishpoles, or tools to meet the needs of their community. Some libraries integrate access to a coffee shop into the library design and operation. This is often achieved with community and small or commercial business partners.  

Early Literacy:  

Research has shown that the ages of 0-6 are the most formative years for brain development. Many libraries understand that they are critical to young children's early literacy and offer family spaces, story time areas, interactive children's exhibits, and learning labs with technology to teach literacy and enhance reading skills.  

Future Trends 

The COVID-19 pandemic forced libraries to shift much faster into the digital transformation that was already happening. Online registration for library cards and access to electronic material presented new challenges and opportunities for libraries. This quickly evolving digital landscape has also affected people. The pandemic exacerbated an issue in which individuals were being increasingly isolated through technology. Video games, social media, and even on-demand streaming made it easy for users to not interact with other people. Moving forward, libraries can help users by being a safe, inclusive space where people can interact with each other. As a result of the pandemic and quickly evolving technologies, here are a few future trends to look for in public libraries: 

Data and Information Literacy 

With an increase of misinformation online, in the media, and thru foreign adversaries, libraries could host classes and workshops on media and information literacy, fake news, and internet safety. This could help empower users to identify what misinformation is in the media they consume and observe.  

Connected learning:  

It is vital for public libraries to connect teenagers with a wide range of technologies and resources so they can explore their passions and hobbies. Whether it's learning to write code, recording music, filming a movie, or building a robot, libraries can provide free, easy-to-access resources for teens to hone their skills.  

Creative placemaking:  

Creative space-making was coined by Ann Markusen and Anne Gadwa Nicodemus for the National Endowment for the Arts in 2010. They believe that creative space-making is the process in which "partners from public, private, non-profit, and community sectors strategically shape the physical and social character of a neighborhood, town, city, or region around arts and cultural activities." Libraries could be a critical partner in that process and as a place that creates meaning and memory.  

Artificial Intelligence:  

Artificial Intelligence will have a significant impact on the way we work and learn. It can be a helpful tool, but it does have ethical and societal implications and dangers. As the technology becomes more mainstream and accepted, libraries will have to find ways to incorporate AI into their operations. For example, libraries could leverage AI to improve the analytics and recommendations of their digital catalog, freeing up time for staff for other tasks. Libraries could also play a role in algorithmic literacy and workforce development, providing classes and workshops on both.  

Lifelong Learning:  

Libraries provide learning services and resources to all ages. As the population ages and life expectancy increases, there will be a higher demand for activities for senior and retired adults. Public libraries will take on the role of community and meeting spaces, offering curated programming, collections, and services to this older population.   

Charlotte-Mecklenburg's new Main Library, designed by Clark Nexsen and Snøhetta, showcases innovative spaces, cutting-edge technology, and flexible design tailored to evolving community needs.

The Libraries of Tomorrow