A book on public library architecture

For several years now, we’ve been developing new forms of public library work at the Ministry of Imagination. Our aim is to design libraries that actively use the collection; where space is created for a new work process in which co-creation, knowledge sharing and participation are fundamental. But what does this mean for the architecture of public libraries? Existing programs of requirements offer no solutions, so we embarked on an exploration into the new role of the library and, in particular, into the architecture and form language that goes along with it.

As a result of our exploration, we made an English book about the future architecture of public libraries, called: Imagination and Friction: a Dutch vision on public library architecture. The central question in the book is whether the changing role of the public library could lead to a new typology, a new building type with its own readable architecture.

With this richly illustrated book we aim to inspire librarians, architects, planners and policy makers to bring about a truly innovative architecture that reflects the new role of public libraries in society. The book has been published by nai010 in december 2021.

More information: www.imaginationandparticipation.com