School Libraries in Action Series

Creating vibrant library spaces

Introducing light – making the physical space light and airy

Submitted by Barbara Combes

These ideas have been collated from a workshop session held at the 2010 SLAQ/IASL Conference held in Brisbane, 2010. The ideas are not exhaustive. Many thanks to the delegates who participated and are responsible for some great ideas.

Creating a light, airy working and recreational space is more inviting than somewhere that dark and dingy. Make sure you position computer screens so they do not refract light as this leads to glare which makes the screens even harder to read.

Ways to maximise light in the library:
Light paintwork
Half shelving
Mirrors
Light, patterned carpet (up walls as well)

Too much light

  • Create stain glass/mural window effects with coloured cellophane paper – student artwork?
  • Snow flakes, bubbles, sea scapes also work – reduce glare but still let in light – can be changed each term.
  • Use some of the window space as a display board, crepe paper backing for colour and then work on cardex paper.
  • Anti-glare covering on the windows to reduce light.
  • Cling film on windows – for painted murals (make sure you have paper on the floor when taking down!)

Creating light

  • Stick to one colour theme – KISS – keep it simple stupid – not too many bits, dark colours or patterns.
  • Remove curtains and shelving from the windows, use blinds instead – can use privacy blinds for the workroom where you can see the students but they can’t see you.
  • Introduce skylights
  • Light coloured furniture, light coloured walls – new paint (more expensive) that will repel graffiti is easier to clean. Don’t be afraid to use bright colours – it can be repainted!
  • Remove fly screens.
  • Keep windows clean.
  • Make sure all the lights are environmentally friendly, white lights and they are all working – these need checking at least once a year as the long lasting environmentally friendly lights fade with prolonged use.
  • De-clutter!
  • Light coloured pin-up boards, light coloured carpet halfway up the walls/columns/front of the loans desk – instant display space.
  • Use light/bright coloured frames for work being displayed – create cardex sets – says “quality” about the work being displayed.
  • Remove painted windows. Replace small old fashioned windows with larger picture windows.
  • Don’t block your light sources with shelves or displays.
  • Half shelving gives an illusion of space especially if you have low ceilings. Students can use the tops as reading spaces or you can use them as display spaces.

See also: The entrance - what messages do you send?

Last updated 15 December 2010