The provided picture illustrates the design of a public library today in comparison to 20 years ago. Overall, the most significant change is that today’s library offers much more than just a place for books. Dedicated rooms now serve a variety of functions, contrasting with the previous design, which primarily focused on traditional book-related activities, although one room was designated for recreational use.
The main areas in both the current and past designs still serve the same purpose of providing access to books, even though their interiors differ significantly. In the earlier design, there were chairs and a couple of tables positioned centrally within the building, but these have since been removed, leaving the center of the floor open. In addition to the book collections, the current library features an information desk and self-service machines.
Regarding the four designated rooms, each has a specific purpose. Starting from the top-left corner, the initial room was intended for relaxation and entertainment, equipped with gaming facilities. It has now evolved into a more interactive space combined with a children’s fiction section, transforming it into an area that promotes both play and reading. Meanwhile, the children’s books that were previously located in the top-right corner room have been moved, and that room is now utilized as a lecture hall.
For the two rooms near the entrance, the design has changed significantly as well. The inquiry desk that was located on the right side has been converted into a café, while the reading room on the left is now functioning as a computer room. These changes illustrate how this library has transformed from a simple library into a versatile community space that offers a wide range of amenities.