What are the main interests (regarding furniture, displays, signage) of public libraries these days?
The Internet and wireless technology are having a major influence in public library spaces. There is a trend toward lounge-style casual seating areas for reading and laptop use, similar to those in Starbucks and Borders. Self-issue/return is reducing the need for large barricade-style circulation desks, and we are seeing a move toward a more intimate inquiry desk approach, as seen in modern banks. European-style furniture and shelving is becoming more popular, to fit with the “retail look” being introduced in many new and remodeled buildings. Wood is still popular but is used more for decoration and embellishment than for structural pieces of furniture; end panels for steel shelving; tops and ends for steel framed tables and carrels. Coffee shop areas are being introduced in more libraries now, increasing the need for café-style furniture. Often this is incorporated with lounge furniture, once again, along the lines of the Starbucks model. Display is always a challenge as media sizes c
