Before There Was a Place Called Library – Library Space as an Invisible Factor Affecting Students' Learning

Abstract

This paper presents a conceptual framework of space design principles and conditions for learning in academic libraries. The researchers reviewed relevant literature and identified several factors significantly affecting space and learning. Transmutation of the library into a completely digital library appears to be premature. However, the design of academic libraries has changed dramatically in recent decades as a result of digital technology and changes in pedagogy, and will undoubtedly continue to change. Flexibility is considered an imperative of design. The most successful designs have been developed by a collaborative process, involving all stakeholders from the delineation of the vision through to completion of the project, but with a project manager who can coordinate all players and drive the project.