Glenorchy Library

Glenorchy Library

Libraries Tasmania, Department of Education

Inspiration

As described by a literary character, libraries are loved because “nowhere else in the world felt so safe and homey.” Inspiring Place were engaged to bring that sense of safety and comfort to the ill-conceived and run-down forecourt at the Glenorchy Library, where a range of social issues were making entering the library a testing experience.

Outcomes

Charged with redesigning the space and encouraging a change of social character, Inspiring Place set to work.  We reorganised circulation, and managed the arrival experience through careful placement of seating, retaining and planting.  We put power and USB into all the seating, added lighting and contracted the repainting of the roof.

Recognition

From the moment the site was opened on time and on budget, the social dynamic of the forecourt changed.  Today, people use it like a living room, accessing the free Wi-Fi and recharging their phones, lounging alone or in conversation and enjoying the lush backdrop of the plantings.  Now when they arrive, they are safe and home.

Photography: Jordan Davis