Comparison of conventional book stacks, moving aisle book stacks, and industrial storage techniques shows that the industrial technique is the least expensive to build, maintain, and operate. Characteristics of automated storage and retrieval systems are discussed, and formulas for calculating the size and costs of a library system are presented.…

In one Massachusetts Institute of Technology building, architect I. M. Pei gave up three crucial areas of the project to three other designers for the purpose of artistic experiment: the main public space; the atrium's skin, with its impact on material and color throughout the building; and the site itself. (MSE)

A University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee building illustrates how an academic building can be ill-suited to its users due to uncompromising adherence to its formal conception. The building is out of scale with its neighbors and unsuccessful in fulfilling human needs, particularly those constituting the latent functions of the building. (MSE)

Through aesthetics, styles, and organization of space, campus architecture has often been complicit in reproducing dominant ideologies and social relations of society, undermining diversity and its possibilities. Architectural scholars, as teachers of architecture, should move theory and practice into new, more critical social terrain. (MSE)

Describes a pilot project in automated storage and retrieval of library materials which uses miniload cranes to retrieve bins of materials, and an interface with an online catalog that patrons use to request materials. Savings in space and money and potential problems with the system are discussed. (CLB)

In a broad institutional planning exercise, Ramapo College (New Jersey) used charts to analyze the state of the college and brought in a theater and set designer to help assess the institutional context for its work. The technique has been used to explore organizational patterns in staff utilization, curriculum design and organization, space…

A series of articles reviews current trends in library furniture, including designs to accommodate computer equipment and workstations, children's furniture, shelving, and display aids. Design requirements and evaluation criteria are discussed, and a directory of furniture suppliers is provided. (CLB)

This report documents an investigation which was conducted to determine how the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Library can best use its facilities, space, and equipment to meet the needs of users; provide a safe, comfortable workplace for staff; and house and protect its collections. The task force methodology is described, and…

Describes an automated storage/retrieval system which is integrated with an online catalog and circulation system at California State University--Northridge as a practical solution to the problems of expanding collections and escalating construction costs. The impact of this system on user services is discussed. (CDD)

Touchtone telephone registration and related computer student information system technologies can provide more efficient use of faculty, curriculum, and classroom space. Faculty, departments, and students all gain a degree of control. More in-depth and precise research must be undertaken and shared among institutions. (MSE)

In planning for the year 2010, Cornell University (New York) found that, although space for library collections must increase, advancing technology would slow the increase required, with most of the collection growth after 2000 managed through wider technology or remote storage. Consolidation of special libraries is also considered. (MSE)

This guide provides a comprehensive method for measuring the quality and educational effectiveness of school facilities and may be used to perform a post-occupancy review; to formulate a formal record; to highlight specific appraisal needs; to examine the need for new facilities or renovations; or to serve as an instructional tool. Suggestions are…

The North Carolina Division of School Planning conducted an educational survey of Cleveland County Schools. An architect and an engineer evaluated and rated each facility and site. The report of findings recommends reorganizing the merged school system into a K-5, 6-8, and 9-12 configuration, to improve instructional offerings for particular…

The result of a detailed 2-year space needs analysis of the University of Idaho Library, this study focuses on the three primary space requirement elements of users, collection components, and library staff and support services. A summary of issues and recommendations is presented, and the following specific subjects are considered in detail: (1)…

Refinements of space standards and a survey of physical facilities are reported for Ontario-area universities. Part I, "1987 Refinements to the Council of Ontario Universities (COU) Space Standards," updates the interim report issued in August 1986 and consists of the following: development of the COU space standards, the work of the…