ABSTRACT
An architect generally suffers the disadvantages of never having had to run or manage a library. When the architect fully understands the library functions he or she can then attempt to solve, while creating the design of the whole, a series of important problems to assist the satisfactory use of the library building by both staff and users. Library planning requirements and qualities have changed, slowly at first but more rapidly with the changing needs of libraries and library users. The architect will need to know the steps the librarian is considering to avoid books being damaged or pages removed. The problem offered by the Libraries Committee to design a district library on an existing site in Jesmond at first appeared straightforward. The demand of a set-back at the main entrance to cope with the outspill of users indicated a comer entrance, suggesting a plan roughly square with a comer missing.
