Case Studies
Maria Fidelis Catholic School FCJ
A flexible, modern library for Maria Fidelis Catholic School FCJ, London
Introduction
Maria Fidelis Catholic School FCJ, a co-educational secondary school in the heart of London, contacted BookSpace in October 2024 to redesign their existing library space. The school wanted to modernise their library furniture and create a more functional, flexible space that would support independent learning whilst placing reading firmly at the centre.
“Our team delivered a full library design service – from initial concepts to final installation – with a strong focus on visibility, student engagement and supporting a variety of uses within the space. The result is a multipurpose school library that not only looks great but performs exceptionally well as a learning, teaching, and reading hub.” says library designer, Jonathan Turner.
A library to suit a new space
Due to the construction of the HS2 rail line, Maria Fidelis Catholic School was required to relocate and the new school building was officially opened in September 2019.
However, the existing library furniture from the old site proved unsuitable for the new space due to the room’s unusual shape. The school decided to invest in new library furniture that would make the most of the available space and reflect the modern feel of the new building.
A flexible, student-centred design
The brief was clear: to revitalise the school library with contemporary library shelving, study booths, and engaging book display options.
The layout needed to support a range of uses – quiet reading, individual study, small group work, and whole-class teaching – whilst keeping sightlines open for the librarian.
Key elements of the final design include:
• 1500mm high, open-backed mid-floor bookcases to ensure clear sightlines throughout.
• Mobile library shelving on lockable castors for maximum flexibility and easy reconfiguration.
• Strategic use of wall space to increase book capacity whilst contributing to an open-plan feel.
• A teaching area retained at the front of the library using the school’s existing desks.
• Individual study booths with privacy panels to minimise distractions and improve focus.
• Bespoke chess tables with comfy chairs to encourage play and social interaction.
Tailored library furniture solutions
The library features a mix of bookcases with both spine-out and face-out shelving to add interest and create opportunities for eye-catching book displays.
This thoughtful combination is designed to encourage students to explore beyond their usual genres and read for pleasure.
One standout addition is the bespoke curved librarian’s desk, designed not only for functionality but also for privacy.
This custom-built piece includes a lockable cupboard and a countertop screen to conceal the back of monitors and ensure any sensitive information is kept out of view. Positioned to face into the room, the new librarian’s desk allows for better interaction with students and more effective use of the space.
A collaborative, full-service approach
As part of our comprehensive library design service, we provided:
• Three initial floorplans with variations to suit the school’s needs and preferences.
• 3D visuals to bring the designs to life and help the school better understand the finished space.
• An itemised quotation including book capacities, so the school could assess functionality alongside cost.
• A collection layout plan showing the proposed organisation of fiction and non-fiction books.
Additional services
At Maria Fidelis Catholic School, we were pleased to introduce extra services to help the school prepare for their new library.
We organised the removal and recycling of their existing library furniture and packed the books into boxes to ensure the collection was safe throughout the refurbishment.
Final result
The finished library at Maria Fidelis Catholic School FCJ is a welcoming, flexible, and dynamic space that encourages both academic study and reading for pleasure whilst accommodating various extra-curricular clubs such as chess.
With high-quality library shelving, soft-seating and practical workstations, it’s a space that can grow and adapt with the school’s needs. Most importantly, it reflects the school’s commitment to literacy, independent learning, and student wellbeing.
Library Design Service
At BookSpace we love helping to design reading spaces no matter how large or small. Our experienced team of designers, in-depth knowledge of primary schools and superb range of contemporary school library furniture combine to ensure that BookSpace is the ideal choice.
Whatever the size and shape of your space, whichever the year group taught, we can create your dream school library.
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