Spatial Design in Japanese Public Libraries During the First Half of the 21st Century

Hoshi, Manami; Kawamoto, Marika; Koizumi, Masanori

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/122830 Copy

Description

Title

Spatial Design in Japanese Public Libraries During the First Half of the 21st Century

Author(s)

• Hoshi, Manami
• Kawamoto, Marika
• Koizumi, Masanori

Issue Date

2024-03-20

Keyword(s)

• Ishikawa Prefectural Library
• Case study
• Close reading
• Japanese libraries

Abstract

Contemporary Japanese public libraries have undergone notable evolutions in their spatial design. This research explores the distinct spatial attributes exhibited by Japanese public libraries since the dawn of the 21st century. By searching the Japanese Bibliographic database (CiNii Research) using key-words such as ‘library AND architecture’ and ‘library AND space,’ we found 2,985 pieces of literature focusing on publications after the year 2000. Sub-sequently, we closely read these, supplemented by an in-depth case study. We identified 116 relevant works and extracted key spatial elements during our literature analysis. Our case study focused on the Ishikawa Prefectural Library, epitomising the contemporary Japanese public library architectural paradigms. Next, we scrutinised the foundational design principles of this in-stitution and evaluated floor space allocation across diverse functionalities by sourcing data from the institution's architectural blueprint. Our literary exploration identified 16 salient spatial elements, especially ‘Expansive Spa-tial Designs’ and ‘Areas for Relaxation.’ The case study revealed that the Ishikawa Prefectural Library accentuates spaces that galvanise intellectual and cultural pursuits, cultivating a fresh cultural ambience underpinned by interpersonal exchanges. The floor space analysis denoted that ‘Meeting Spaces,’ constituting 5.56%, and ‘Learning Spaces,’ comprising 4.17%, re-flect the library's core design ethos. Thus, contemporary Japanese public li-braries prioritise user-centric spaces, which is manifested in the inclusion of diverse functional areas. Future investigations should expand the scope to include multiple libraries for a richer, more intricate understanding.

Publisher

iSchools

Series/Report Name or Number

iConference 2024 Proceedings

Type of Resource

Other

Language

eng

Handle URL

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/122830

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2024 is held by Manami Hoshi, Marika Kawamoto, and Masanori Koizumi. Copyright permissions, when appropriate, must be obtained directly from the authors.

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