In 2022-23 ALIA funded a research project into library design trends in Australia, showcasing architectural and sustainable innovation in library design and construction. Read the report here: Designing for the Future in Australia: A Retrospective on the ALIA Library Design Awards.
The research project was put out for expressions of interest, and the team chosen to lead the initiative was led by Professor Lisa Given, FASSA, RMIT University and included Dr Kirsten Day, ARBV FRAIA, University of Melbourne, Professor Helen Partridge Deakin University and Dr Katherine Howard, RMIT University.
The visually rich report covers building designs as well as processes such as community consultation and environmental assessments. The report researches the trends, thinking and best practices in library design over recent years, using the archives of the ALIA Library Design Award nominations, refurbishments and newbuilds, longlisters, shortlisters and award winners, many of which can be explored in a dedicated website: https://amazinglibrarydesigns.org.au
The report focuses on Australian library design, with comparisons made to global trends and research into best practice, and explores the potential influence of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals for future library designs.
The research and report was commissioned by ALIA and the report serves as a valuable resource for library and architectural educators, practitioners, and researchers, to inform innovative, future designs that best meet their constituents’ needs.
Watch a webinar where the team explore the trends and themes in the report: https://vimeo.com/885086236
For more information about the Australian Library Design Trend Report, contact [email protected]