Libraries have undergone an extraordinary transformation over the last twenty years--from glorified book warehouse to interactive learning environment. For an architect they are currently amongst the most exciting projects to be commissioned to design. Innovation and "Next Generation" are the buzz words. However instead of exploring a first…

The Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress is one of the more significant public structures in American architecture, due for the most part to its wealth and quality of decoration, including an extensive sculptural program executed in 1894-97. The architects entrusted the program to a committee of three prominent sculptors, J. Q. A.…

The building and decoration of the Library of Congress in the late nineteenth century were emblematic of America's longing to be regarded as an enlightened nation and to take its rightful place among the great civilizations of the past. The sources for this ambition, illustrated in the paintings, sculptures, and inscriptions in the library's…

Cites a directory of consultants concerned with the design needs of handicapped people and lists the names and addresses given for Arizona. (CWM)

Describes a cultural center in Mexico City's University City that includes a concert hall, two theaters, a library, two cinemas, a ballet hall, and an opera hall. (Author/JM)

It is a fact that architectural design education has become the focus of an extremely complicated set of issues and conscientious debates. Therefore, to extend and challenge educational understanding in architecture it becomes crucial to exchange pedagogical practices. In this article, a specific theoretical approach and teaching methodology,…

Discusses the working relationship between librarians and architects in handling feasibility studies, site evaluations, budget considerations, time line predictions, and the architectural programing involved in library building projects, whether it be replacing, expanding, remodeling, or relocating. (EJS)

The author traces the growth of public library building in Finland, discusses the role of public subsidy legislation, and expresses the need for better library planning. (MF)

Presents overview of state of Soviet Union library service comprising 350,000 libraries, including national, governmental department, and public group (trade unions, professional associations) libraries. Training of Soviet librarians, library cooperation, national planning and funding, cultural exchange and cooperation, supporting international…

The Islamic Republic of Iran's parliament, the Majlis, passed in 1990 a law setting out the functions of its national library. In 2005, the inauguration of the first stage of the new national library building was celebrated as a major national cultural and architectural achievement. This article looks at the origins and evolution of the National…

Focuses on selecting appropriate furnishings, floorings, and surfaces for a new library. Discusses appropriate color schemes; carpeting; protecting wood surfaces with polyurethane, user-friendly furniture, and flexible staff workstations. (AEF)