It’s Not a Space, It’s a Philosophy: Designing a High-Purpose Culture within Your Learning Environment (Chapter)

When planning a new library space, there are many components to consider. Whether it is a renovation, an addition, or an entirely new building, countless variables compete for your time and attention. Architects imagining the flow of people and the functionality of the environment. Vendors showcasing a wide range of technologies and furniture possibilities. Designers presenting endless options of colors, patterns, and textures that weave together a spatial narrative. Facilities managers focusing on electrical capacity, heating and cooling, asbestos, and cleaning schedules. Building officials referencing state codes on egress and seating capacity. It’s a lot to take in.

I’ve worked on over 30 construction projects and have experienced a certain joy in the act of shaping an initial concept into a physical reality. But honestly, the grand opening is just the beginning. How we infuse that space with an inspiring spirit and sustain that over time is the real challenge. As much as I enjoy selecting furniture and dabbling with new technologies, stewarding that environment is the real work. This chapter will outline a set of components that I recommend for nurturing a high-performing culture for your high-purpose learning space.