Newcastle City Library in Newcastle, United Kingdom

July 22, 2011 Category: Cultural, Public Buildings

The Newcastle City Library designed by Ryder Architecture is located in Newcastle, United Kingdom. A building to ‘delight and inspire’ was the guiding principle. The library combines performance and beauty. It is environmentally responsible, inclusive and fun – a ‘living room for the city’. The library provides a model for C21 library facilities, including access to books and information; a music area and book gallery; the historic Newcastle Collection; and exhibition and performance space. There is more space for customers, better space for children, and books are easier to find.

The front of house / back of house ratio has been reversed so that the public now have access to 70% of the building during normal hours. Innovations include automated book control, self issue and return systems, download points and the British Library’s “Turning the Page” system, allowing visitors to browse specialist collections digitally. Through the use of self service technology staff are now free to focus on welcoming people and helping them use the library.

Newcastle City Library design by Ryder Architecture