The second edition of the bestselling Better by Design, the practical manual for anyone approaching a new library build or major refurbishment project, is published today.

Described as, ‘chock-full of useful information’ by Traci Lesneski, the CEO and Principal of award-winning architecture and interior design firm MSR Design, the new edition charts an accessible path through everything from the planning of a new library, to a major refurbishment, to a remodeling of a current library and will be an essential resource for library professionals or architects or a valuable reference text for students of both library and architectural design.

Alongside guidance for embarking on a library project, the new edition of Better by Design includes coverage of emerging concerns in the design landscape, including the environmental impact of building design, construction and use; the need for flexible and adaptable library spaces; the rapid growth of digital services; and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and customer access needs on the design and layout of a library. It explores all types of libraries, from public, to school, to academic.

The authors have significant experience of library projects around the world. Ayub Khan is Head of Universal Services for Warwickshire County Council, and has undertaken a number of library new-build and refurbishment projects, alongside being President of Libraries Connected and a past President of CILIP – The Library and Information Association. Stella Thebridge recently retired from Warwickshire County Council after many years of responsibility for reader development services. Both authors have been awarded MBEs for their services to libraries.

Marian Morgan-Bindon, Chair of the Library Buildings and Equipment Section of IFLA, said of the new edition of Better by Design, ‘it provides a clear pathway of what to expect at every stage: from initial planning to outcome evaluation, advising of potential pitfalls, and providing practical examples and direct links to relevant projects. As well as a practical “field guide”, this book will serve as a reference tool for the experienced practitioner and is a great addition to the librarian’s toolkit.’

Better by Design, Second Edition: An Introduction to Planning, Designing and Developing Library Buildings | Ayub Khan & Stella Thebridge | 184pp | 9781783305704 PB £60 RRP | 9781783305711 HB £120 RRP

This book will be available from the American Library Association in the US and Canada, and from Taylor & Francis in Australia and New Zealand.

CILIP members receive a 35% discount on all Facet Publishing books. Find out more