The Practical Handbook of Library Architecture

Authors and librarians Schlipf (Sch. of Information Sciences, Univ. of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Constructing Library Buildings That Work) and John A. Moorman (former director, Decatur, IL, Public Library; Running a Small Library) wrote the first edition of this handbook on library building projects based on their experience working in libraries, consulting, and teaching about library buildings. With the addition of coauthor Joe Huberty, a partner with Engberg Anderson Architects, the second edition adds the perspective of an architect’s experience designing libraries. The handbook offers advice that applies to a range of project types, from new buildings and historic buildings to remodeling, additions, and shared spaces. Sidebars describe stories of highlights and the pitfalls that threaten during all phases of a library project. The tone is often tongue-in-cheek and evident from chapter one, which is titled “More Than 250 Snappy Rules for Good and Evil in Library Architecture.” A doorstop of a book at nearly 800 pages, the second edition is nevertheless a more focused version of the 1,000-page first edition, even incorporating some new content. Text reworked into shorter sections and a revised chapter arrangement make it easier for readers to turn to their topics of interest.