Hovedbiblioteket (small children's section)

Hovedbiblioteket (small children's section)

• The form aspect
The small children’s at the library is a relatively small and compact area, with low ceiling and small glass walls (behind one of the wals, theres a bare area used for nothing, which is almost like hidden behind different items). From the area it is almost possible to see the whole childrens area of the library, giving a interesting overview, and seeing the library and it’s offerings from a new perspective. A very distinct staircase is leading up to the area. A special thing about this staircase, is that it is kind of separated, with small regular steps and larger steps, that needs very large, almost athletic steps, that is primarily used for sitting. The spaced is full of toys and icon figures (teddies) from different books and cartoons. There is no high-tech, all the toys are aimed at children at a low age.

• The practical functional aspect
The space is primarily a playing area for small children, but is also used for parents (or personel) storytelling. The space has wooden floors, and different types of carpets and other things for children to explore on the floor. It is a very open space, giving the ability to see many different interesting things around the space. The low ceiling of the rooms gives a type of intimacy, and it is possible that this is making the children feel like they fit into the space.

• The scenographic-social aspect
A library has a classic set of rituals, e.g. to whisper and generally be quiet. Even though there is space to use a playstation or a computer, it is the norm for the children to be relative quiet, and not make noise.
There are clear reading areas which affords for reading, and quiet-time.

• The iconographic-important aspect
- How can a facility use known symbols?
- How can the involvement of symbols influence the use of a space?
???

• The visual-experiential or aesthetic aspect
- Visual aesthetics versus interaction aesthetics?
- We need to think how aesthetics underpin the desired use of the space
The stairs was separated in large steps - for adults, and small steps - for children, or otherwise? Walking up the stairs, feeled like reaching a new exciting plateau.