The Saint-Pierre Library sought to renew its appeal with younger users and foster co-existence of different user segments. Saint-Pierre is the second library serving the borough of Lachine, along with the Saul-Bellow Library, which was fully renovated and expanded in 2015 following an architecture competition.
Background
The mandate called for the team made up of NÓS Architectes in collaboration with Studio Superwise and Atelier Gris to redesign the layout of the library’s children’s area, in consideration of a variety of activities and to accommodate both children and adults comfortably. During the prototyping step, it had been determined that inverting the two areas—the children’s area and a work area for adults—made for a more optimum configuration of activities and improved co-existence of users. It was also pleasant to see children right beside the entrance. The children’s area is used by toddlers and younger children (age 8 and under), who mostly visit the library in the morning and on weekends, as well as by children 9 to 13, who tend to be there weekdays after school and on weekends.
The architects’ and designers’ work identified the following observations and challenges, which they then incorporated into their spatial planning:
- A large amount of seating was needed for special events;
- Spaces for accompanying adults were insufficient and unsuitable;
- Given the high traffic in the children’s area, new layout and furnishings had to be long-lasting, safe and easy to maintain;
- Seasonal displays and décor were an important need in the children’s area, both for users and staff;
- Co-existence among users could be improved by creating a more intimate atmosphere, or “cocoon effect,” in the children’s area;
- The area’s proximity to the reception desk was conducive to monitoring of children by staff; however, noise and distractions needed to be controlled;
- It would be beneficial to showcase some of the works in the young readers collection (“bookstore-ization”).
Following that analysis, two primary objectives were established: design a space that would take into account the two youth user groups that use the library at different times, and better accommodate parents and accompanying persons in that space.
Saint-Pierre Library (Before)
Saint-Pierre Library (After)
Concept
The concept developed relied on three preferred strategies to achieve optimum impact on the functionality, flexibility and adaptability of the space.
Elevated stations were installed between the welcome desk and the children’s area, creating an informal space made up of lightweight, functional furniture. This space complementing the layout of the children’s area offers a bookstore-type ambience and is adapted for adults accompanying children as well as being available to people passing through or waiting. A series of high tables with stools was laid out so as to maintain traffic fluidity and not obstruct the view from the welcome desk to the children’s area. A display case dedicated to new arrivals or themed collections was also added to enhance the space. These prefabricated steel units feature simple openwork construction, are easy to install and can be repositioned in the event of a future refit.
The central space of the children’s section is occupied by two mobile mini-houses that can be arranged in multiple configurations. Positioned in the centre of the section, the modules allow children to make the space their own, and are also suitable for seasonal display and décor. With their familiar shapes and small scale, they provide a comfortable, playful platform for children of all ages. They are made of steel tubing and feature versatile display panels, with a horizontal surface covered in a gym-type mattress for comfort and safety.
Lastly, a bleacher-style seating section was installed along the back wall. Its many seats provide a vantage point overlooking the children’s area of the library. In conjunction with the positioning of the mobile mini-houses, the bleachers are adaptable to a variety of uses: they can function as a stage or a display area during special events.
To visit the library:
183, rue des Érables
Montréal (Québec) H8R 1B1
Execution
