Use compact library storage to create space for the future.
In the United States and beyond, libraries are establishing themselves with a new mission—one more focused on learning than simply reading and researching. Makerspaces have been created in the places where static bookshelves once stood. Large rooms that once held book collections are being renovated for lecture and workshop use. Computer labs for accessing the Internet and taking online courses are cropping up in even the county’s smallest rural libraries.
What results is more than redefined spaces—by providing a variety of learning opportunities and resources, libraries have once again become front and center in the communities they serve. Compact library storage helps create space for modern uses.
How are libraries making these spaces happen? It’s not through additions or major renovations—it’s through rethinking the storage and accessibility of their collections with a combination of solutions:
By eliminating aisle space and compacting books in shelves that are able to move back and forth, many libraries are doubling the amount of books they are able to store in the same footprint simply by making the switch to compact library storage solutions.
These readers and prints give library patrons the opportunity to scan or print something from microfiche and access it from a computer, tablet, or mobile device.
Our static shelving solutions, whether traditional cantilever library shelving or sturdy 4-post shelving, offer a wide range of options and storage accessories for storing and displaying books, documents, periodicals, and a wide range of media formats. You can always add our static shelving to compactors to make your library compact storage more efficient.
Some materials are more requested than others. Certain collections can be transferred to an archival storage facility, where high-bay shelving can compact items, yet keep them 100% accessible for requests. Using compact library shelving in an offsite facility can save significant space in the main library as well as save in costs for renting offsite space.
Library carts or shelving on casters is a functional and aesthetically pleasing way to create more flexibility with your space. Casters can be concealed or visible depending on the solution you choose and can help create more space by simply moving these shelves out of the way when they are not being used.
As with all Donnegan cantilever shelving units, a wide variety of specialty shelves and accessories are available, including browsing bins, zig-zag displays, supports, and more.
Day Use Lockers have a lot of benefits but one application that has been recently applied to the Library market is Lockers for after-hours pickup and drop off.
When someone needs to retrieve a book or drop off a rental but the Library is closed, this solution allows them to still get the resources they need or return any items they need to without the Library needing to be open.
Using a special locking mechanism these lockers act as the go-between when a library staff member is unavailable. Simply deposit the necessary items into the locker and the patron will receive an email or text letting them know their book is available for pick-up.
Give us a call to learn more: 800-222-6311
BROCHURE: LIBRARY TRANSFORMATIONS
See how libraries are using compact library storage and transforming their space to meet all the needs of a modern library.
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The first step in repurposing your library is to determine the resources that are most beneficial—and most accessed—by your patrons. A part of this assessment is determining the current mix of patrons that use your facility as well as any groups you hope to attract.
Our goals are two-fold: to condense your current collections into a smaller space, and to allow adequate storage to plan for future growth. Our storage experts can provide an in-depth storage and space analysis for this crucial step that includes all of your options for compact library storage.
Mobile compact library storage solutions can be more affordable than static storage, and no matter how simple or complex the repurposing project is, we work with a keen eye toward respecting your organization’s budgetary restraints. Keep in mind that existing shelving can be mounted on mobile carriages, further reducing cost.
Contact our storage experts to learn more about compact library storage and shelving options.