This chair is too small! The intersection of a space use study and library furnishings

Abstract

In 2017 a university library conducted a space use study to document how students utilize the physical library with an objective of improving furnishings. The study's effectiveness led to the formation of a furnishings task force with members from multiple library teams and budgetary support from administrators., , Researchers used scheduled counts, a survey, feedback from the student advisory board, and photographs. Count data was transferred to a google data studio dashboard for analysis. Study results aided in developing a shared understanding of how spaces are used and what type of furnishings and layouts would be optimal. The major challenge has been balancing a goal to maximize library seating with the observed functional capacity of a given space. , , The presentation will outline the tools and methodology used for the study and include a visual presentation of the results including the dashboard. Positive outcomes and challenges of the project will be covered.