CHALLENGE
The library has lost its formative function in society and must reinvent itself in a new role. Users want to do more than borrow books, which is why the library must offer other services.

Total reorganisation of Hjørring Central Library that focuses on new information frameworks and platforms for the library’s changed role in society. The library must become one of the town’s cool places – an assembly hall, a hub, a meeting place. The library is part of the ‘Metropolen’ shopping centre.

FINDINGS
As a centre of knowledge, the library can house many media in the same room while also offering good meeting and reading facilities.

The physical layout of the library rooms has great importance for the way in which people perceive and use the library. This is why there is a need for differentiated designs that attract users in different ways and in different surroundings.

Creating new surroundings can change people’s library habits. The library must also be a new social meeting place that offers various kinds of experiences.

SOLUTION
In collaboration with the library staff, the designers developed a new frame-work for communication and a new platform for experiences; together, these will turn the library into a multi-functional centre for experiences and know-ledge – a local meeting place that calls for engagement, active involvement and development. A red band guides users through the whole library. A colour-ful interior and a seamless transition between the services offered turn a visit to the library into a unique experience. The various flexible options provided by the interior give completely new opportunities for disseminating information and involving library users. The innovative library has led to a steep increase in visitors as well as heightened external focus on the town of Hjørring.

Design Rosan Bosch and Rune Fjord
Customer Hjørring Libraries