ABSTRACT
A post-occupancy evaluation (POE) is a crucial stage in the overall assessment of how a new building fulfils the intentions of those who commissioned it, along with those responsible for its design. Thinking about this well in advance can aid the planning process from the outset. There are particular demands made on public buildings such as libraries — especially in terms of location, approach, public legibility, ease of access and sense of welcome — requiring special attention in the way they are accomplished. Inside, such buildings should provide clear signage and way-finding, expressing the diverse range of spaces and experiences on offer. They should also be self-evidently a place for children and families, offering amenities that support a longer and more enjoyable stay — not just be a drop-in facility. Provision for staff should also be of high-quality and fully integrated into — and of a piece with — the overall design. In turn architects and building managers have a right to expect staff to respect the original design intentions, and not undermine the overall effect by quickly filling the key public areas with clutter, or adding a proliferation of poorly executed signs and notices. An agreement about the post-occupancy maintenance regime and schedule should be part of the hand-over arrangements.
