Universal Design in UK Libraries: Best practice in British public libraries

Abstract

This paper seeks to describe examples of best practice in library service design and building layout according to the principles of Universal Design in public libraries in the United Kingdom. As well as looking at services which are incorporated into the overall library offer, it will focus on several different libraries referring to the Universal Design principles and the way in which new and refurbished British public libraries are increasingly recognising the requirements of the widest range of age groups and specific needs. Examples will be given of libraries who have provided flexible spaces for families and children with special needs including autism, new community hubs where health and wellbeing are taken into account in the planning of the space and buildings which have been refurbished to provide more equitable access to the whole library with an additional range of services. The paper will also show how the needs of people living with such conditions as dementia, sight loss and autism are incorporated into the design of services.