An architect's perspective on contemporary academic library design

The making of space and place (architecture) requires cultural and financial consent as to societal value. Standards and values about the academic library of the immediate future are not always shared by librarians and architects; however, architects and librarians do possess several shared perceptions. Among these shared perceptions are that print collections will remain a primary function of libraries for the foreseeable future, flexibility in shelving arrangements are essential, adjacencies must be fluid, floor-to-floor heights should be generous, compact shelving has become commonplace, print and electronic media must coexist, and technology has not reduced library space requirements. Experience reinforces the continuing and increasing significance of the library on college and university campuses.