Schools
Library Accessible Layout for Schools
Review the complete journey from arrival to use and exit. Check what people need to see, reach, turn around or operate.
Explore the ideas
Walkthrough checklist
- Walk the route from the actual building approach, including thresholds, doors and level changes.
- Identify functions that need an approachable position and reachable controls, and check them with users.
- Check furniture, contrast and signage against applicable accessibility requirements with the project professional.
Worked example
Imagine a learner who uses one hand for writing and finds that frequently used materials are stored across the desk behind a monitor.
Ask the learner to demonstrate their usual task and place supplies on the comfortable side within reach. Check chair approach, controls and routes with the learner and an appropriate accessibility professional.
How to test it
Repeat the walkthrough after furniture is placed and verify the finished design against the applicable local standards.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Place quiet reading at the far edge and group tables near the entrance or resource counter.
- Detail
- Use readable shelf labels, task light at tables, and soft finishes in designated quiet areas.
- Trade-off
- More group seating can raise noise across the library.
- Listen from the quietest seat during group use
- Check shelf aisles allow two students to pass
The Elixir portfolio
Details worth a closer look
