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Space Solutions for Libraries: Maximizing Tight and Awkward Spaces with Furniture

By Rashelle Agati

Furniture In The Field, Public Library Furniture, University Library Furniture

Library Furniture Space Solutions for Tight and Awkward Spaces

How do you make the most out of every spot in the library in a way that visitors love?

Joe Agati Sr. visits 5 libraries getting maximum use of their spaces, and brings their space solutions to you.

When librarians want to make the most of library spaces, the right furniture solution can convert architectural constraints into enjoyable spots for visitors. Whether you’re looking for space solutions in a public library or you need to maximize tight or awkward spaces in an academic library, you have a variety of furniture options to choose from. By incorporating the right furniture solutions, you can create inviting spaces that feel comfortable and secure while also helping visitors be productive as they enjoy the library. Here are some of Agati’s installations at five different public and academic libraries that show how creative space solutions can make every nook in the library an enjoyable place for visitors.

Rotating SeatS IN TIGHT SPACES to Create a Feeling of Security

At Master’s University Library in Santa Clarita, California, a creative approach transformed neglected stack areas into prime study spots for students. Traditional study carrel orientations exposed visitors’ backs to the open aisles between stacks. This placement left students feeling exposed and vulnerable. Consequently, the carrels were not inviting spaces for students.

Master’s University installed Agati’s Hampton Nook seating along the walls, which pivoted the orientation of the seats. The seating in the cozy nooks is now positioned sideways to the wall, so students have their backs covered with the chair’s back wall and the carrel open on the side. This gives students an easy view of what’s happening around them while still offering a feeling of privacy and security.

Masters University Study Carrels

Turning PERIMETER SPACE into LAPTOP CHARGING AND WORK SPACES

Milpitas Public Library in Milpitas, California, chose to optimize perimeter space with Agati’s Power Bar seating and work stations. The design features a slim profile counter that maximizes narrow spaces while providing essential power access. The versatile stations can be customized in various lengths, making them an ideal solution for libraries seeking to optimize perimeter spaces.

Spaces near walkways are generally most accessible, and the addition of ADA-compliant extensions ensures accessibility for more visitors while maintaining the library’s space-efficient floor plan. This creative approach demonstrates how previously transitional spaces can become valuable work areas that meet visitors’ needs.

Laminate Power Bar with ADA extension at Milpitas Public Library

MAXIMIZING Corner Spaces with Curved Lounges

In Los Angeles, California, the Academic Resource Center at LA Valley Community College exemplifies how curved furniture can solve corner space challenges. Agati installed our modular Gee Curve Lounges in a previously underutilized corner that was made awkward by a column.

The curved design flows naturally with architectural elements while the biophilic feel of the lounges fosters a sense of comfort and collaboration, where before it felt like there was an awkward barrier. This solution not only maximized square footage, it transformed a previously underutilized corner into a sought-after group refuge destination.

LA Valley College

A Window’s Transition from Architectural Constraint to Favorite PROSPECT Spot

In New York City’s Greenwich Village, the New York Public Library features tall, high windows. Unlike book stacks and movable furniture, windows are fixed objects in the library’s architecture. In addition, librarians didn’t want to block the windows with shelving and cut out the natural light.

Instead of leaving the space open, NY Public Library installed counter-height seating and tall chairs from our Gothic Collection along the windows. The high seating gives visitors an optimal prospect view outside. Visitors can gaze out the window at treetops while their backs are mostly covered in this uniquely shaped space. This approach preserves natural light, maintains architectural integrity, and creates coveted workspaces with inspiring views.

NY Library Window Stool

Turning Wide Aisles into Productivity Zones with with Facing Carrels

USC’s Gould School of Law has a section with wide aisles between book stacks. To maximize opportunities for law students to have quiet study, the space solution came through the strategic placement of Agati’s facing Roland Carrels.

The positioning of the carrels offers quiet study spots in the wide aisle. While students’ backs are exposed, the area is a quiet, low-traffic zone. Still, there is ample space for passing visitors to move freely through the space and not disrupt those studying. USC Gould School of Law Librarian told us that she likes the Roland Carrels’ uniquely slim-profile legs, which allow students to move large rolling chairs without hitting with the carrel legs.

USC Gould Law School Library Roland Carrel

Getting the Most from Every Spot in the Library

With creative furniture selection and placement, designers and librarians can transform even the most challenging places in the library into useful and coveted spots for visitors. Strategically-placed study carrels, power bars, and curved lounges can make the most of every tight or awkward space in the library while boosting visitor enjoyment and engagement.

Talk to an expert today to learn more about how Agati can help you make the most of your library space.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can library space utilization be improved?

Working with an interior designer, whether Agati Furniture’s in-house designers, or an interior designer with experience in libraries, will help you maximize every space in your library. Interior Designers can present furniture solutions to solve even the most awkward and tight spaces. Modular pieces that can be moved and reconfigured easily as needs change give librarians flexibility to use even challenging spaces in the library. As well, tables and seating with varying heights and pieces with privacy partitions, such as study carrels, can help librarians make the most of every space while serving their visitors’ needs.

What library furniture works well in tight spaces?

Slim-profile furniture, such as counter-height power bars and narrow study carrels, offer minimal footprints. Compact seating options can be tucked into alcoves or stack ends. Consider furniture with built-in power access to eliminate the need for separate charging stations. Modular pieces that can be configured to fit specific dimensions are also useful.

How can library furniture increase student engagement with the library while also making use of tight or awkward spaces?

Creating spaces that offer quiet, privacy, and comfort while still making students feel like they’re part of the school community can drive engagement and enjoyment with the library. Furniture pieces like tall, narrow tables that are power-enabled with high seating offer a place to study and collaborate while also letting students view their surroundings. Narrow study carrels can fit in wide aisles or along stack walls to give students a spot for quiet study while still letting them view their surroundings.