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The ideas in this book are all about helping your library building become a more exciting, interesting, experiential space where people are engaged and want to spend time.  More time spent in the library increases the library’s value and relevance to its users—and the more intriguing the space is, the more it helps draw in new patrons.  Taking inspiration and examples from companies and non-profits outside the library world, this book’s engaging ideas include

• using “biophilic design” to bring nature into your library through gardens, plants, and greenery;
• transforming static spaces into “Instagram bait”;
• putting art installations in bathrooms;
• turning underutilized spaces like hallways and mezzanines into welcoming “chill” zones;
• creating pop-ups and other flexible spaces that change regularly;
• developing co-working spaces in libraries;
• preserving and promoting silent spaces; and
• creating “parklets” from parking spaces.

Complete with lists of additional resources for discovering even more ideas, this book will help all kinds of libraries create innovative spaces that will delight their communities.

When it’s time to start planning for a renovation or construction project, you don’t need a book that covers everything from A to Z. Instead you need a concentrated set of tools and techniques that will guide you and your team to find the best solutions for your specific project. That’s exactly what library building expert Schlipf provides in his new book, which will be a key resource for library directors, administrators, board members, trustees, and planning professionals. Pinpointing the elements that make library buildings functional, in this book readers will find

• a streamlined organization of the text that enables quick consultation and facilitates collaboration;
• concise coverage of the essentials of the library construction process, including who does what, how things work, and how to stay out of trouble along the way;
• advice on important planning and workflow considerations such as site selection, schematic design, funding, design development, the bidding process, construction, and post-construction occupancy;
• discussion of the characteristics of successful library buildings—buildings that are easy to maintain, welcoming to people with disabilities, have less trouble-prone restrooms, and provide security for users, staff, and collections; and
• an overview of bad ideas in library architecture, with pointed guidance on how to steer clear of them from the very beginning of your project. 

Library work is really all about people. And the inclusive, welcoming nature of the library means that all kinds of people pass through its doors. Not all difficult patrons are dangerous, but some frighten staff and other library users, which can lead to situations that are distracting, troubling, and fraught with liability. For more than a decade, Albrecht, a 15-year police veteran, has presented workshops for libraries on dealing with challenging patrons. His no-nonsense advice will empower library staff in their personal security and give them the tools to confidently communicate with their colleagues, patrons, and members of law enforcement regarding inappropriate behavior. In this book he addresses security issues important to all libraries, including

• Specific guidance for common situations, such as unruly teens, unwanted sexual advances, chronically homeless substance abusers, and more
• The elements of an effective Code of Conduct and how to enforce it
• Tips on how to manage internet usage to minimize potential problems
• How to align with patrons and use language that defuses the conflict
• Forming partnerships with service organizations, homeless shelters, mental health advocacy groups, and other community resources
• How to know when it's time to call the police, plus ideas for increasing law enforcement support
• Ways to make the library more secure through changes to facilities

Libraries are in a unique position to aid communities during times of adversity, and this comprehensive handbook’s practical tools and expert guidance will help ensure that your library is thoroughly prepared for emergency response and recovery.

Your library is a vital information hub and resource provider every single day, and that’s doubly true when calamity strikes. In fact, your library’s role as an “essential community function” during disasters is now encoded in U.S. law. Engaging as a partner in planning and preparedness will build much-needed community support should disaster strike, and even a basic plan will also save you time and stress later on. No matter where your library is in the disaster planning cycle, this handbook will make the process clearer and less daunting. You’ll get tools, activities, easy-to-adapt templates, and hands-on guidance on such topics as

• the six phases of disaster response;
• 15 first-hand accounts of library disaster planning or responses, helping you identify the library services most needed during a disaster;
• three essential factors that will shape the form of your disaster plan;
• preparing for hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, floods, and earthquakes;
• ideas for connecting with your community’s emergency response teams; 
• federal government planning resources;
• pointers on working with state and local governments;
• a sample Memorandum of Understanding to outline mutual support for a speedier recovery;
• recommended courses and training, many of which are free;
• targeted advice for archives and special collections;
• sample building inspection checklists; and
• recommended games to help children and families prepare.