Contemporary Libraries’ Architecture Spaces Formation as Innovative Cultural Hubs

Abstract

In recent years, new spaces were required for a variety of activities. This study deals with library buildings as a case study that is most important to cultural buildings. New library buildings are being built as part of the city's attempts to promote visibility, image, and brand as a desirable future and identity. A large number of new public libraries are thoughtfully constructed in rundown urban areas and former industrial zones to provide attractive new urban and meeting spaces. As a result of the recent digitization of knowledge resources, library spaces have become less popular, and they have had to reinvent their role in the urban fabric. To reach a wider audience and become vibrant spaces, libraries are redirecting their activities. The research's objective is to present and discuss some international library building designs that represent distinct cultural and socioeconomic ideas. Models were chosen from a variety of locations that, for users and frequent visitors to the context in general, were marked by change and development. The goal of the analysis of the chosen global case studies is to determine the successes and lessons learnt. Followed by case studies from Egypt from which a survey has been conducted. Four case studies from Egypt were selected from various locations in order to gather different viewpoints using a questionnaire. The study employs a theoretical analytical methodology, with case studies, comparisons, and discussions; analyzing the implementation of new activities in contemporary libraries to determine their impact on the urban and human level, as well as how they interact with the context and human perceptions. The study concludes by recommendations and suggestions to case studies based on users’ preferences. The findings illustrate the changes that have taken place in modern library spaces, helping to reshape the identity of a new community or development area by creating a lively and communicative environment that will draw a big population and serve the general public.

Keywords

• library architecture
• iconic buildings
• social interaction
• place making
• urban context