Designing a creative learning environment: NTU's new Art, Design and Media Library

Libraries are inevitably becoming both physical and virtual spaces due to the convergence of the traditional and the online environments today. Though the virtual library has been gaining much attention, the “library as a place” is still an important aspect of practical library management. The purpose of this paper is to describe the design, planning and implementation of the new Art, Media and Design Library at Nanyang Technological University to meet the needs and aspirations of a new generation of media savvy users.

A simple questionnaire was used to solicit feedback from staff and students on their impression of the new library during the initial opening period. This was followed up with face‐to‐face interviews with teaching staff.

This study has enabled some conclusions to be drawn on the interplay between library users and the physical environment, particularly on aesthetics, seating and availability of facilities. An important affirmation from the exercise is that aesthetics and good interior design play important roles in the positive perception of library users.

Librarians who are involved in the building and construction of small art libraries will find the paper useful in providing information and ideas on various aspects of library design and planning.