The Shoppable Library

This library is a "must see." The new public library in Almere, Netherlands (opened in March 2010) took a retail approach to its service and design. What a great example of 1) understanding how people interact with a library and its materials and 2) effectively creating a warm and inviting atmosphere with a browseable collection that puts materials within arms reach.

Within the library's "shop" concept, the space integrates seating, workplaces, information computers, counters and lighting into the bookcases/shelves. Materials are arranged by topics or "shops." There's also a news café (on the 2nd floor) that includes hundreds of magazines and newspapers and a circular bar with monitors presenting the latest news.