Revitalising the children’s library to create a modern and engaging space for parents and families.

Motherwell Library in Scotland has been a longstanding hub for community engagement and a key resource for residents of all ages since it first opened in 1906.

To ensure the library designs were aligned with the brief, BookSpace designer Jonathan Turner created a dynamic layout with a number of distinctive zones that could be used for different functions.

“Space planning was key” explains Jonathan. “The children’s library needed to be used by different groups at the same time so we provided a layout which gave each of these groups their own defined area.”

With a clear understanding of the client’s needs, BookSpace developed a comprehensive design concept that embraced a modern and vibrant aesthetic, integrating elements that catered to the diverse needs of the community.

After reviewing several initial concepts, the final design was successfully tendered with a view to complete the works in July 2023.

A major part of the design was making the children’s area feel distinct whilst maintaining a cohesive style across the whole library. This was achieved through the careful planning and choices of materials and colours.

A combination of curved shelving, mobile furniture, tables and seating creates a free-flowing layout with several distinct zones.

Double-sided shelving connecting to a large ‘Welcome’ arch mark the main entrance to the children’s area. Shelving for large print books was incorporated on the adult side leading to a research area where users can access the computers.

Clever use of Picturebook Tunnels and Reading Dens helped to create a special place for parents with babies and toddlers. Low-level, face-out shelving makes browsing easy for little ones and the fun, crawl-through tunnels are a guaranteed hit.

Creating flexible events spaces was key to enhancing community engagement. Freestanding and mobile furniture can easily be moved to accommodate Bookbug, Chatterbooks, Code Clubs and craft activities.

The design also included a striking Feature Wall designed to entice children to explore, touch, play and curl up with a book.

A central feature tree and curvy book benches displaying fiction books shaped the area for older children. Amphitheatre seating provided a purpose-built space for larger events such as guest readings and book clubs.

The revitalised children’s area at Motherwell Library has been a huge success, gaining positive feedback from members of the community, visitors and library staff.

“The feedback has been excellent from customers, both in person and online. The public have taken the time to tell the staff that they find the new space attractive, warm and welcoming.” says Rosemary Stewart, Community Librarian. “Children love sitting in the ‘big wheel’ and the wall ‘cubby holes’. They also like the toadstools and the picturebook tunnel that they can crawl through.”

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