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Designing Libraries

@designinglibraries.bsky.social

128 followers 102 following 69 posts

Designing Libraries is a freely accessible resource for everyone interested in design and innovation in libraries designinglibraries.org.uk

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 2h

Our latest newsletter features standout case studies libraries, incl Haydock Library, the Seoul Outdoor Library, the spaceship inspired Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Research Library & the transformation of Cliftonville Library on our newly updated website: designinglibraries.org.uk/news/newslet...

designinglibraries.org.uk

October 2026 Newsletter - Designing Libraries

Read the Designing Libraries Autumn Announcements Newsletter here

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Designing Libraries is partnering with #Arup to explore the future of England’s public library estate. Working alongside sector partners, we’re looking at how library buildings & spaces can continue to evolve to meet changing community needs, supporting learning, creativity, wellbeing & connection.

A collage of images showing meetings, artefacts and rooftop socialising all at the London headquarters of Arup

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

The winner of the IFLA Public Library of the Year Award 2026 has been announced at the IFLA World Library & Information Congress in Busan,South Korea. Congratulations to Mesa Gateway Library on this outstanding achievement! @ifla.org @ayubkhan786.bsky.social designinglibraries.org.uk/news/ifla-pu...

designinglibraries.org.uk

IFLA Public Library of the Year 2026 Winner

Winner of IFLA/@James Bennett’s Public Library of the Year announced at the Busan conference

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

Taking a well earned holiday this Summer. Why not take a few moments before to catch up with our conference special newsletter, featuring highlights from the inaugural Designing Libraries Conference 2026, delegate feedback, inspiring quotes and photos. designinglibraries.org.uk/news/newslet...

designinglibraries.org.uk

July 2026 Newsletter

Read the Designing Libraries Conference Special Newsletter here

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

All ready to welcome our guests to our inaugural Designing Libraries conference. It promises to be a stimulating and informative day. The conference could not take place without our generous supporters, sponsors and speakers

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

Not long to go now until our first National Library Conference and we're excited to share the news that our event is now fully booked. It promises to be a great day of innovative ideas, inspiring speakers & opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the library sector.

Promotional poster for the Designing Libraries National Conference at Swiss Cottage Library on Wednesday 17th June 2026

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

There's only a limited number of places remaining for our National Library Design Conference on 17th June. Secure your ticket & download the conference brochure for programme details, speaker profiles, sponsor information and practical guidance for the day designinglibraries.org.uk/news/nationa...

designinglibraries.org.uk

National Designing Libraries Conference 2026

We’re thrilled to announce the inaugural Designing Libraries Conference on Wednesday, 17th June 2026, 10am-4pm at the iconic Swiss Cottage Library, London

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 13/05/2026

We’d like to say a big welcome to Gresswell, our latest Designing Libraries sponsor, so why not check out a variety of their new case studies we’ve recently added to the website designinglibraries.org.uk/about-design...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Gresswell have shaped futures, one library at a time for 80+ years. A trusted specialist partner offering resources, expert design & installation services.

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Reposted by Designing Libraries

Arts Council England @artscouncilengland.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

The Libraries Improvement Fund Round 5 is now open.📚 £5.5m available to help library services in England upgrade buildings, spaces and digital infrastructure. Find out more and apply. 🔗 bit.ly/4wcDVl4 Image Credit: Henleaze Library

A library interior with shelves filled with books and a green and brown carpet. Signs on the shelves read "Quick Pick." Text overlay at the top says, "LIBRARIES IMPROVEMENT FUND Applications now open.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 10/04/2026

If you haven’t received our latest newsletter, why not spring into action this weekend. Sign up now & watch your inbox blossom. It’s packed with blooming great content & details of our national library design conference, at Swiss Cottage Library on June 17th designinglibraries.org.uk/news/newslet...

designinglibraries.org.uk

April 2026 Newsletter

Read the Spring 2026 Designing Libraries International Newsletter here

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 30/03/2026

You might be interested in signing up for this seminar, primarily aimed at colleagues in the Middle East, however, this maybe relevant to all colleagues across the globe. naseej.zoom.us/webinar/regi...

Three speakers for the webinar

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 11/03/2026

#openingthebook have recently relaunched their website and they have a new section on #librarydesign so it's definitely worth a look: www.openingthebook.com/library-desi... @ayubkhan786.bsky.social

Library Design concept drawing from Opening the Book Ltd

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 02/03/2026

An inspiring day at Warwick Castle meeting in 17th century Italian Library with our amazing DL sponsors #bibliotheca @designconceptuk.bsky.social #fgl #openingthebook Discussions covered web enhancements,IFLA collaboration & planning for an upcoming national conference on #librarydesign

Designing Libraries Sponsors and Advisory Group members meeting in the amazing 17th Century Italian Library at Warwick Castle

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 16/02/2026

A new week and a new raft of innovative library design case studies to inspire you all added to our website. Check them out now: designinglibraries.org.uk/case-studies/

designinglibraries.org.uk

Case studies from Designing Libraries' sponsors, showcasing some of the latest library building transformation projects.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 27/01/2026

Read our latest perspectives article where @ayubkhan786.bsky.social has an insightful talk with Sue Mckenzie about her work as a library consultant: designinglibraries.org.uk/perspectives...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Ayub Talks to Sue

Ayub Khan talks to Sue Mckenzie, libraries consultant, about the consultant’s perspective on library design projects

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 22/01/2026

Information Professional Digital Winter 2025 features Designing Libraries Director @ayubkhan786.bsky.social discussing trends in library design and technology designinglibraries.org.uk/news/trends-...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Trends in Library Design and Technology

Information Professional Digital Winter 2025 features Designing Libraries Director Ayub Khan discussing trends in library design and technology

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 16/01/2026

Read all about our latest featured library, Glucksman Library in The University of Limerick, which in November 2025, received a highly commended recognition for library spaces at the SCONUL Library Design Awards - designinglibraries.org.uk/libraries/gl...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Glucksman Library - University of Limerick

The University of Limerick Glucksman Library's expansion was driven by digital transformation, evolving pedagogies, and a growing, diverse student body.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 23/12/2025

Seasons Greetings to all our Advisory Board Members, contributors, Sponsors, followers and supporters. Thank you for making Designing Libraries such a success in 2025 and we look forward to working with you all in 2026.

A photograph of a Christmas Tree full of books hanging from its branches

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 16/12/2025

If you haven't received our latest newsletter, packed full of Winter goodies, you can read it here and also, why not sign up for future editions, which are delivered quarterly straight to your email inbox: designinglibraries.org.uk/news/newslet...

designinglibraries.org.uk

December 2025 Newsletter

Read the Winter 2025 Designing Libraries International Newsletter here

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

Had a great session this morning with colleagues across the world from IATUL Sig Spaces, focusing on joint collaboration and the sharing of resources and best practice. Watch this space for further details! #IATULorg

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 28/11/2025

Read all about the SCONUL Library Design Awards 2025 designinglibraries.org.uk/news/sconul-...

designinglibraries.org.uk

SCONUL Library Design Awards 2025

Winners of the 2025 SCONUL Library Design Awards, which includes a new category for service design this year, alongside the established category

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 25/11/2025

In the latest Winter edition of Information Professional magazine read DL Director @ayubkhan786.bsky.social informative article on the role of libraries in cultural regeneration - content.yudu.com/web/43mce/0A...

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 05/11/2025

@librariesni.bsky.social

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 05/11/2025

This is so true.‬⁩ Libraries are beacons of lights in our cities, towns and villages! www.linkedin.com/posts/librar...

When the clocks go back and the nights close in, towns and cities start to change. Streets grow quieter, shopfronts dim earlier, and people retreat indoors. But in windows across Northern Ireland… | L...

When the clocks go back and the nights close in, towns and cities start to change. Streets grow quieter, shopfronts dim earlier, and people retreat indoors. But in windows across Northern Ireland, the...

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 23/10/2025

We have curated a list of resources and links about National and international websites, online information sources and image galleries featuring library buildings and library design examples, all in one section as a one stop shop for anyone to access: designinglibraries.org.uk/resources/re...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Related design sites and image galleries

National and international websites, online information sources and image galleries featuring library buildings and library design examples.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 16/10/2025

In the Autumn 2025 edition of Information Professional magazine, our DL Director @ayubkhan786.bsky.social discusses how public libraries are supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities - designinglibraries.org.uk/news/how-pub...

designinglibraries.org.uk

How public libraries support children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)

Information Professional Autumn 2025 features Designing Libraries Director Ayub Khan discussing how libraries are offering support for children with SEND

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 18/09/2025

If you've subscribed to our Designing Libraries newsletter, then you should've received our latest Awe inspiring Autumnal edition, but you can always choose to read it on the DL website, so why not check it out: designinglibraries.org.uk/news/newslet...

designinglibraries.org.uk

September 2025 Newsletter

Read the Autumn 2025 Designing Libraries International Newsletter here

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 17/09/2025

Check out this great and inspiring library design @librariesconnected.bsky.social article from Fiona Tarn, Chair of London Libraries: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/camden-... @designconceptuk.bsky.social @ayubkhan786.bsky.social

librariesconnected.org.uk

Camden Libraries: Making library spaces flexible and attractive | Libraries Connected

Creating beautiful spaces is a key ingredient to a modern library service.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 04/09/2025

Read Daniela Hislop CEO of @designconceptuk.bsky.social captivating global perspective on library design @lizmcgettigan.bsky.social designinglibraries.org.uk/news/a-globa...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Daniela Hislop CEO of the Design Concept's global perspective on library design

"The future of libraries is already happening. It’s bold, inclusive and beautiful - and it’s time to pay attention.”

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 28/08/2025

Check out this Designing Libraries in the 21st Century conference, taking place between September 28th - 30th at the University of Rochester in New York. More details here: www.library.rochester.edu/designinglib...

library.rochester.edu

Designing Libraries XII | River Campus Libraries

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 19/08/2025

Read this informative, incisive and really interesting interview we've added with #JoshHughes who's recently become Managing Director of #FGLibrary designinglibraries.org.uk/news/josh-hu...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Interview with Josh Hughes, Managing Director of FG Library

In this interview Josh shares his thoughts on his new role as Managing Director, what the position involves, and his aspirations for the company's future.

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 18/08/2025

Another fantastic case study to read, but this time from FG Library all about the transformation of Henley Library into a vibrant, accessible and community centred hub! designinglibraries.org.uk/case-studies...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Henley Library, Henley-on-Thames

Henley Library underwent a comprehensive refurbishment to transform it into a vibrant, accessible, and community-centred hub

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 18/08/2025

@ifla.org @ayubkhan786.bsky.social The winner of the IFLA public library of the year award 2025 will be announced very soon, but in the meantime, find out about the shortlisted applicants designinglibraries.org.uk/news/shortli...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Shortlisted Applicants for IFLA Public Library of the Year Award 2025

The Public Library of the Year award is presented by the International Federation of Library Associations & Institutions, to honour new public libraries

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 18/08/2025

Welcome to the future! Read the new innovative Northmoor Library, Oldham case study from @designconceptuk.bsky.social @lizmcgettigan.bsky.social designinglibraries.org.uk/case-studies...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Northmoor Library, Oldham

Welcome to the future! Northmoor - a hub of opportunity

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 11/08/2025

Read all about this lovely woodland themed library in Wales. Our case study of Llanrwst Library tells how it was beautifully transformed by Opening the Book Ltd It's got fascinating, engaging illustrations and reading dens in the children's library too! designinglibraries.org.uk/case-studies...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Llanrwst Library, Wales

A new community hub for rural Conwy when the building which had been the Glasdir Business and Conference Centre in Llanrwst became available.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 28/07/2025

DL Director @ayubkhan786.bsky.social has written a thought provoking article in the latest Information Professional Magazine on the subject of how libraries are tackling anti-social behaviour: content.yudu.com/web/43mce/0A...

content.yudu.com

InfoPro Rewired 2025

Reposted by Designing Libraries

Bodleian Libraries @bodleian.ox.ac.uk · 04/07/2025

Duke Humfrey's Library has been shortlisted as one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Libraries in the World by @1000Libraries. We’re currently at number 5 - and we need your help to win! Please vote for the Duke Humfrey's Library: 1000libraries.typeform.com/to/TdFzuF5W?... All photos by Fisher Studios

The interior of Duke Humfrey's viewed looking from Arts End looking down the desk-lined central aisle towards the stained glass window at Selden End.

The Duke Humfrey's ceiling, painted with panels displaying University of Oxford's motto, 'Dominus Illuminatio Mea (Latin for 'the Lord is my light'). In between the panels here we can see two white, blue and gold crests. These are Thomas Bodley's coat of arms.
Image 4: The bronze statue of the Earl Of Pembroke which stands in Old Schools Quad, in front of the entrance to Duke Humfrey's.

The exterior of the Library and the Divinity School. Elaborate medieval gothic architecture with enormous arched windows on the ground floor, smaller arched windows on the second, and four tall elaborate spires amongst the crenellations along the roof.

The bronze statue of the Earl Of Pembroke which stands in Old Schools Quad, in front of the entrance to Duke Humfrey's.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 30/06/2025

Why not read our new Summer Sizzling newsletter, loaded with hot picks and cool summer delights! designinglibraries.org.uk/news/newslet...

designinglibraries.org.uk

June 2025 Newsletter

Read the Summer 2025 Designing Libraries International Newsletter here

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 13/06/2025

Opened in 2022, the 6th floor extension of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Library includes distinct areas for both collaborative work and quiet study. designinglibraries.org.uk/case-studies...

designinglibraries.org.uk

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Library New Extension Floor

Opened in 2022, the 6th floor extension of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Library includes distinct areas for both collaborative work and quiet study

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 05/06/2025

We've been working hard putting up some brilliant new case studies on the website from our sponsors @designconceptuk.bsky.social FG Library and Opening the Book Ltd. It's exciting to read about and see these fantastic innovative projects come to fruition, Enjoy! @ayubkhan786.bsky.social

designinglibraries.org.uk

Case studies from Designing Libraries' sponsors, showcasing some of the latest library building transformation projects.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 21/05/2025

Congratulations to Designing Libraries Director @ayubkhan786.bsky.social on being elected to the @iflaglobal.bsky.social buildings section

Reposted by Designing Libraries

ayubkhan786.bsky.social @ayubkhan786.bsky.social · 21/05/2025

One of the grandest entrances through an old foundry to a library I’ve ever seen and visited in the UK, at St Helen’s glass museum and library #theworldofglass @designinglibraries.bsky.social

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 15/05/2025

@designconceptuk.bsky.social @lizmcgettigan.bsky.social @ayubkhan786.bsky.social Experience the grand reopening of Chorlton Library, a historic Grade II-listed landmark in Manchester, meticulously refurbished to blend heritage with innovation. designinglibraries.org.uk/case-studies...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Chorlton Library, Manchester

Chorlton Library, a historic Grade II-listed landmark in Manchester has been meticulously refurbished to blend heritage with innovation.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 09/05/2025

Creative #FridayFeeling Read all about this fascinating interactive sound archives sculpture, 'The Listening Desk,' which is now permanently installed in six libraries across the UK. designinglibraries.org.uk/news/listeni...

designinglibraries.org.uk

The Listening Desk by Emily Peasgood Studio, in collaboration with Studio Ben Allen

It's a functional and interactive sound sculpture, inviting people to access and create soundscapes with sound archives, in a fun and playful way.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 08/05/2025

Read the fantastic new blog article on, 'Bringing Your Books Alive,' from Designing Libraries Sponsors, Opening the Book Ltd designinglibraries.org.uk/resources/re...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Opening the Book Blog - Bringing Your Books Alive

Designing Libraries sponsors Opening the Book specialise in international reader-centred library design along with training courses for all grades of staff

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 17/04/2025

#ThursdayMotivation Important UK Home Office library news update! designinglibraries.org.uk/news/martyn-...

designinglibraries.org.uk

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent on Thursday 3rd April 2025.

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 10/04/2025

#thursdaymotivation Read this fantastic library design guest blog from @peters-books.bsky.social designinglibraries.org.uk/resources/re... @ayubkhan786.bsky.social

designinglibraries.org.uk

Peters' Blog: How To Use Colour Psychology In Your Library

Peters’ interior designers use colour psychology to inform work they do in schools, seeking to align emotions and behaviours with the purpose of the space.

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 21/03/2025

#FridayFeeling We’ve sprung into action by sending our latest March newsletter out, one packed full of new growing resources on #librarydesign and more, but if you haven’t signed up yet, you can still read them on the website and subscribe there too - designinglibraries.org.uk/news/newslet...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Read Designing Libraries Newsletters

You Can Read All the Designing Libraries International Newsletters here

Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 19/03/2025

@ayubkhan786.bsky.social Exciting times for the @britishlibrary.bsky.social

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Designing Libraries @designinglibraries.bsky.social · 18/03/2025

The “Public Library of the Year” award is presented by @iflaglobal.bsky.social with the aim of honouring new public libraries. Baker & Taylor is the proud main sponsor of the award. You can apply from March 18th - May 25th 2025 designinglibraries.org.uk/news/call-fo...

designinglibraries.org.uk

Call for IFLA/Baker & Taylor Public Library of the Year Award 2025

The Public Library of the Year award is presented by the International Federation of Library Associations & Institutions, to honour new public libraries