NEW BRUNSWICK PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICE
POLICY 1003
Subject:
Effective:
Revised:
1.0
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Public and Public-School Library Facility Standards
August 2015
PURPOSE
This policy is used to support the establishment of new libraries or existing libraries that
require renovations or expansions to meet community demands and needs.
2.0
APPLICATION
This policy applies to all public and public-school libraries whether they are stand-alone
facilities or in multi-purpose buildings or whether the building is owned or leased by the
municipality (or an association of persons acting as a municipality) or a school district.
This policy does not explain library funding responsibilities of the provincial government,
municipalities (or association of persons acting as a municipality) and school districts (in
the case of public-school libraries). For this information, see NBPLS Policy 1005 –
Establishment of Public and Public-School Libraries.
3.0
DEFINITIONS
Population served refers to the number of people living in a community where a public
or public-school library is located based on census data. The population served may
include more than one community if a group of municipalities have a joint agreement to
act together as a municipal partner under the New Brunswick Public Libraries Act. The
use of population served data does not affect the provincial and municipal government
partnership that all libraries are accessible to all New Brunswickers regardless of where
they live.
Small sized library refers to a library that serves a population of 3,999 or less.
Medium sized library refers to a library that serves a population of between 4,000 and
9,999.
Large sized library refers to a library that serves a population over 10,000.
ORIGINAL SIGNED BY
PROVINCIAL LIBRARIAN
NEW BRUNSWICK PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICE
POLICY 1003
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Library resource centres refers to one library designated in each library region that is
ideally located near the regional office to facilitate strategic and operational planning in
the provision of regional and provincial library services and programs. The library
resource centre has a dual role: to serve as a public library within a large urban centre
(i.e. Edmundston, Campbellton, Moncton, Saint John and Fredericton) and to serve as a
resource library that offers support services and specialized expertise to public libraries
throughout the public library system in the delivery of circulation services, reference
services, children’s services and young adult and adult services.
4.0
LEGAL AUTHORITY
The New Brunswick public library system exists through partnership agreements
between the provincial government, participating municipalities, school districts or
associations of persons acting as municipalities. The provision of public library services
is regulated by the New Brunswick Public Libraries Act.
5.0
GOALS / PRINCIPLES
5.1
The mandate of the public and public-school library is to facilitate life-long
learning for the public and the school population (in the case of public-school
libraries). Public and public-school libraries provide services and resources to
help meet the informational, educational, cultural and recreational needs of its
clientele.
5.2
Library buildings are well-planned and efficiently organized for use by patrons
and staff, offering a welcoming atmosphere that will encourage use by a wide
segment of the population.
6.0
REQUIREMENTS / STANDARDS
6.1
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Respecting the New Brunswick Public Libraries Act:
6.1.1 NBPLS (via the Regional Director) is responsible for preparing library
feasibility studies or needs analyses that include (but are not limited to):
€ the vision for the library in the community;
€ community needs analysis / use projections (library activities and
population growth);
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POLICY 1003
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€ site analysis / locale in the community;
€ library space requirements and service areas (collections,
programming, public seating / meeting spaces);
€ staffing levels and workspace;
€ evolving technology and electrical requirements;
€ public and staff computing;
€ furniture and equipment.
6.1.2 Municipalities and School Districts (in the case of public-school libraries)
are required to work directly with NBPLS staff to ensure that library
construction, expansion and renovation projects result in a facility that is
functional from a service and operational/human resource point of view.
As a result:
€
The library construction/renovation/expansion team must include
the Regional Director;
€
The Municipality, School District (in the case of public-school
libraries) and the Regional Director must agree with the library
facility plan (after consultation with the Executive Director of
NBPLS) prior to any renovation or construction project begins;
€
The Regional Director must review all tenders. This includes
shelving and furniture tenders;
€
For all computer or technical equipment and electrical and cabling
plans, the Municipality, School District (in the case of public-school
libraries) and Regional Director must consult with the NBPLS
Systems and IT Unit for approval prior to any tendering or
purchasing commitment. For information on standards relating to
computer and technical equipment, refer to NBPLS Policy 1093 –
Computers and Technical Equipment in Libraries;
€
At the discretion of the municipality, representative(s) from the local
library board may be asked to participate on the library
construction/renovation/expansion team as community advisors;
NEW BRUNSWICK PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICE
POLICY 1003
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6.2
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As a jointly funded public service, responsibility for library
construction/renovation/expansion projects rests with the
municipality (or association of persons acting as a municipality),
school district (in the case of public-school libraries) with the
approval of the Regional Director (after consultation with the
Executive Director of NBPLS).
FACILITY PLANNING
6.2.1 Library construction/expansion or renovation projects must include
building structure and floor plans.
6.2.2 All library building plans must be in compliance with the latest edition of
the National Building Code of Canada.
6.2.3 Plans for new library construction or additions to existing buildings are
designed by an Architect that holds a certificate of practice as issued by
the Architects’ Association of New Brunswick.
6.2.4 Engineers involved in construction projects are certified to practice in New
Brunswick.
6.2.5 In the case of public-school libraries:
€
There must be one public entrance that is well-marked and
welcoming that does not require entering the school. This ensures
the public has direct access to the library. It also encourages public
usage during school hours and reduces distractions for students
during school instruction;
€
There must be an internal door from the school to the library that
can be locked by library staff for security purposes;
€
There must be adequate space, furniture and equipment necessary
for its efficient operation and implementation of its services and
programs for both the school and the community;
€
All construction and renovations to the facility, regardless of funding
source, must be planned and undertaken in consultation with the
Educational Facilities & Pupil Transportation Branch, Department of
Education and Early Childhood Development and with the
authorization of the Minister through that Branch;
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POLICY 1003
6.3
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€
Where a library already exists, the additional area required to bring
the library size up to standard for the new partner is calculated by
adding on the requirements of the new partner, less the areas for
any of the possible duplicated facilities;
€
The layout of the library should maximize the capability of carrying
out class instructional activities (e.g. reading, research, viewing and
instruction) without disturbing the activities of other users.
FACILITY LOCATION
6.3.1 To facilitate community usage, safety and efficiency:
€
The library must be close to other community facilities where it will
be most visible and accessible to all members of the community;
€
The library must be close to public transportation, where applicable;
€
When located in a multi-purpose facility, main access to the library
must be independent from any other buildings, institutions or
organizations. This is to ensure that the library can set its own
open hour schedule;
€
The library must be located on the ground floor for optimal access
by the public;
€
The library (with the exception of library resource centres) must be
located on one floor for optimal accessibility, service efficiency and
security;
€
Library staff must have a view of the library’s overall space;
€
The library building lot must have room for building expansion and
the addition of parking space;
€
There must be sufficient lighting in the parking lot and pathway(s) to
the library entrance;
€
There must be convenient and safe parking available at all times for
library users and staff;
€
The library is located where people can easily access it from a
parking lot;
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POLICY 1003
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6.4
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The library has a minimum of 10 parking spaces for the public and
a minimum of three parking spaces for staff. Whenever possible,
more parking spaces are provided in larger communities.
FACILITY ENVIRONMENT
6.4.1 Barrier-free design must be followed in the construction and renovation of
library facilities. Refer to the latest edition of the National Building Code
of Canada and the Canadian Standards Association Accessible Design
for the Built Environment for minimum standards. At a minimum, the
library provides:
€
Wheelchair/scooter accessible entrance (ideally located at the main
entrance of the library) with an automatic door;
€
Doors with lever handles or push plate/door pull handles;
€
Wheelchair/scooter accessible washroom;
€
Wheelchair/scooter accessible walkways, ramps and drop-off
zones that are clear and unobstructed inside and outside the
library;
€
Aisles between shelves are a minimum of 42 inches (1066.8 mm)
wide to allow for wheelchair/scooter passage;
€
Where the public area of the service outlet occupies more than one
level, an elevator is provided between levels;
€
Adaptive computer workstation(s) placed alongside other public
access workstations to promote inclusivity ;
€
Wheelchair/scooter accessible service desks;
€
Seating next to areas where queues may form;
€
Non-slip flooring;
€
Large print, glare-free, tactile, colour-contrasted signage;
€
Contrasting tones on walls, floors and doorways;
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POLICY 1003
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€
Exterior lighting in parking, walkways, ramps, and drop-off zones to
illuminate the ground surface;
€
Interior lighting at entrances, service counters, work surfaces, office
spaces, shelving areas, and washrooms that offers even
distribution of light ;
€
Sound absorbent walls and floors;
€
Audible and visual emergency alarm systems;
€
Designated wheelchair accessible parking lot space(s.)
6.4.2 The library’s interior plan must:
€
Allow for flexible use;
€
Accommodate technology;
€
Provide an inviting interior;
€
In order to better plan the layout of the library, the color schemes,
and the selection of furniture, an interior designer should be
consulted.
6.4.3 The height of the ceiling must be a minimum of 9 feet (2.7 metres) in most
areas.
6.4.4 The structural floor loading for public areas, areas with shelving, and
areas with compact shelving must meet the appropriate standard and will
be determined by the structural engineer.
6.4.5 Interior windows will be installed in offices and other areas to ensure that
staff have a good view of the library at all times.
6.4.6 Light switches for the main areas of the library are located close to the
circulation desk, except for those located in activity rooms, multi-purpose
rooms, study rooms, staff kitchen, storage rooms, etc.
6.4.7 The latest edition of the Illuminating Engineering Society’s Lighting
Handbook (English only) will be used to determine lighting standards in
libraries.
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POLICY 1003
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6.4.8 Exterior and interior signs are highly visible and direct people to library
services in both official languages (see Policy 1062 – Language of Service
for more information).
6.4.9 The library will provide a telecommunications infrastructure for the public
and library staff that includes:
€
Wired and wireless Internet access;
€
Fixed and mobile computing;
€
Telephone/fax access (minimum 3 lines): one telephone line for
administration; one telephone line for the public to call; and one line
for fax service;
€
The minimum number and location of outlets will be defined at the
time of the feasibility study / needs assessment.
6.4.10 For the comfort of public and staff, and protection of the collection, proper
temperature and humidity control is maintained throughout the year:
€
21-23 degrees C;
€
30-50 per cent humidity recommended.
6.4.11 Heating, air conditioning and lighting design are specifically designed to
conserve energy.
6.4.12 Surveillance systems (cameras or mirrors) must be installed in any areas
not visible from the circulation desk.
6.4.13 Anti-theft detection systems must be installed in large libraries and
resource centres.
6.4.14 Patron counters must be installed to ensure automated statistical
reporting.
6.4.15 Library furniture will be appropriate for the target users (e.g. child-sized
tables and chairs are provided in the children’s area).
6.4.16 A secure, fire-proof, after-hours book return chute must be provided.
6.5
BUILDING MAINTENANCE
6.5.1 The parking lot, walkway, ramp and stairs must be well maintained and
quickly cleared of snow and ice.
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POLICY 1003
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6.5.2 Janitorial services must be provided to ensure a clean and healthy public
building.
6.5.3 The library has practical and suitable landscaping.
6.6
SPACE REQUIREMENTS
6.6.1 Each library will have:
6.7
€
designated service areas for circulation, reference, children, young
adult and adult services as well as open spaces;
€
designated lobby / arrival space upon entering the library;
€
indoor seating;
€
outdoor seating;
€
attractive exterior and interior architectural detail, with consideration
for the display of art;
€
for public service and security purposes, rooms such as offices,
staff workrooms, and meeting/study rooms will have a window
looking into the library.
SHELVING
6.7.1 The layout and height of shelving in the library will be determined by the
Regional Director with the Architect.
6.7.2 Adjustable shelving will be appropriate to the types of materials in the
collection, and to the needs of the clientele.
6.7.3 Shelving will be sufficient to house the current collection, allow for
expansion, and meet the collection standards for the size of the
community.
6.7.4 The following rule of thumb will be used for roughly calculating shelving
requirements: 150 volumes per 3-foot single face section, seven shelves
high (Source: American Library Association: Checklist of Library Building
Design Considerations).
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POLICY 1003
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6.7.5 Gauges of steel for library shelving must be in compliance with current
Canadian library shelving vendor specifications.
6.7.6 Shelving units must include the slat walls, kick panels, dust covers
(counter tops) and end panels.
6.7.7 Shelving must be braced.
6.7.8 Height of shelving should allow sufficient clearance from sprinklers.
6.7.9 Height of shelving may vary according to library section (40, 52, 64, 76
inches; or 1016, 1320.8, 1625.6, 1930.4 mm).
6.7.10 Maximum height of shelving is 76 inches (1930.4 mm).
6.7.11 Depth of shelves should be 10-12 inches (254-304.8 mm).
6.7.12 Aisles between shelves are a minimum of 42 inches (1066.8 mm) wide to
allow for wheelchair/scooter passage.
6.8
CIRCULATION AREA
6.8.1 The functional layout of the circulation desk will be determined by the
Regional Director with the Architect.
6.8.2 The circulation desk must accommodate in a functional way the cabling
and wiring for information technology and telecommunications.
6.8.3 The circulation desk must be located near the main public entrance.
6.8.4 The circulation desk must meet ergonomic standards and provide enough
space behind the desk to allow staff to work comfortably, circulate books
and book carts.
6.8.5 To ensure accessibility and functionality:
€
the minimum size is 250 square feet (23 square metres);
€
the counter height is 36 inches (914.4 mm);
€
the lower section is recessed to 30 inches (762 mm) for wheelchair
use, child use and sit down service;
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POLICY 1003
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the counter depth/surface area is 24-30 inches (609.6 to 762 mm).
€
6.9
PUBLIC SEATING
6.9.1 Seating is distributed through different areas of the library that
accommodates electrical and data connections; additional seating space
to be provided at computer workstations, study rooms, activity and multipurpose rooms.
6.9.2 Seating for a classroom visit in the case of public-school libraries.
6.9.3 Each seat will allow 30 square feet per person (2.8 square metres).
6.9.4 All libraries will provide a minimum of 5 spaces (15 square feet per
person,1.4 square metres) with electrical outlets to permit the use of
devices brought by patrons to the library.
6.9.5 Minimum of 25 seating spaces for populations up to 1,999 (750 square
feet, 70 square metres).
6.9.6 Five spaces per 1,000 to be added in addition to above for populations
over 2,000.
6.10
STAFF OFFICE SPACE
6.10.1 Every library provides office space for the Library Manager/Director office
that is a minimum of 200 square feet (19 square metres) and located close
to the circulation desk with windows looking into the library.
6.10.2 Every library resource centre provides office space for each Head of Unit
(four offices). Each office is a minimum of 150 square feet (14 square
metres) and located close to respective service areas with windows
looking into the library.
6.11
STAFF WORKROOM
6.11.1 Every library provides a staff workroom that is equipped with at least one
computer work area, a sink, closet, counter or table, shelving, cabinets,
equipment, bulletin board and storage area and windows looking into the
library. The size of the workroom will be as follows:
€
Small sized libraries: minimum of 300 square feet (28 square
metres)
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POLICY 1003
6.12
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€
Medium sized libraries: minimum of 400 square feet (37 square
metres)
€
Large sized libraries: minimum of 500 square feet (46 square
metres)
€
Library resource centres: minimum of 500 square feet (46 square
metres) for the circulation workroom; minimum of 300 square feet
(28 square metres) for workrooms in reference services, children’s
services and young adult/adult services
PUBLIC COMPUTING
6.12.1 Majority of public seating will have electrical and data connections nearby
for computing devices.
6.12.2 Libraries will have sufficient electrical outlets to accommodate various
computing devices.
6.12.3 Libraries will have sufficient high-speed internet connections to meet
public computing needs.
6.12.4 Minimum of 15 square feet (1.4 square meters) to accommodate each
computing device (e.g. desktop, laptop, tablets) provided by the
municipality or the school for the library (in the case of public-school
libraries):
€
Small sized libraries: minimum of 4 computing devices (minimum of
one provided by the school in the case of public-school libraries as
per NBPLS Policy 1073 – Internet Access);
€
Medium sized libraries: minimum of 10 computing devices
(minimum of one provided by the school in the case of publicschool libraries as per NBPLS Policy 1073 – Internet Access);
€
Large sized libraries: minimum of 20 computing devices (minimum
of one provided by the school in the case of public-school libraries
as per NBPLS Policy 1073 – Internet Access);
€
Library resource centres: minimum of 20 computing devices.
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6.12.5 Minimum of 24 square feet (2.2 square metres) is required for an adaptive
computer workstation and a small table for the Closed Circuit Television
(CCTV).
6.12.6 Minimum of 500 square feet (46 square metres) is required for a computer
training lab in the library resource centres, preferably in a closed room.
6.13 PUBLIC USE EQUIPMENT
6.13.1 Minimum of 15 square feet (1.4 square metres is required for multifunction printer/photocopier/fax machine located near the circulation desk
(or the reference desk in the case of the library resource centre).
6.13.2 Minimum of 25 square feet (2.3 square metres) is required for a microfilm
reader.
6.13.3 Minimum of 15 square feet (1.4 square metres is required for Closed
Circuit Television Unit (CCTV).
6.14 ACTIVITY ROOM (PROGRAMMING, EXHIBITS, MEETINGS)
6.14.1 Minimum of 600 square feet (56 square metres) is required.
6.14.2 Large libraries and library resource centres may require more than one
activity room to meet community needs.
6.14.3 The room must be near the children’s area and be equipped with the
following:
€
Storage space
€
Closet (large enough to store folding tables and stackable chairs)
€
Kitchen area with cabinets, sink, fridge, microwave, stove
€
Telephone
€
Audio-visual and information technology equipment
€
Wheelchair accessible washroom that is available outside library
open hours
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POLICY 1003
6.15
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€
Folding tables and stackable chairs
€
Secure access to the room that does not require entry into the
library after hours
ADULT SERVICES AREA
6.15.1 Each library will have an adult services area equipped with:
€ Shelving
€ Public seating that offers a combination of soft and hard seating, stand
alone as well as tables with chairs
€ Display cases
€ Computer workstations / patron space for using mobile devices
6.16
STUDY ROOM(S)
6.16.1 Each library will have at least one study room that is a minimum of 100
square feet (9 square metres) and can be located in any area of the
library.
6.17
REFERENCE SERVICES AREA
6.17.1 Each library will have a reference services area equipped with the
following:
€
Shelving space
€
Public seating
€
Lower shelving and counters
€
Located near public access computers
€
Patron space for using mobile devices
€
Multi-functional printer
€
Magazine/newspaper racks near public seating
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POLICY 1003
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6.18
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Genealogical research/local history area with microfilm reader
CHILDREN’S SERVICE AREA
6.18.1 Each library will have a juvenile service area equipped with the following:
6.19
€
Display cases
€
Lower shelving and counters
€
Public seating that offers a combination of soft and hard seating,
stand alone or grouped, as well as tables with chairs that are easily
moved/adapted for programming space
€
Open floor space for programs
€
Public access computer(s) / patron space for using mobile devices
€
Magazine/newspaper racks and public seating
€
Coat hooks
€
Breastfeeding friendly space
TEEN SERVICE AREA
6.19.1 Each library will have a teen service area equipped with the following:
€
Display cases
€
Shelving
€
Public seating that offers a combination of soft and hard seating,
stand alone or grouped, as well as tables with chairs that are easily
moved/adapted for programming space
€
Open floor space for programs
€
Public access computer(s) / patron space for using mobile devices
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POLICY 1003
6.20
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KITCHEN
6.20.1 Each library will have a staff kitchen equipped with the following:
6.21
€
cabinets
€
counter
€
sink
€
fridge
€
stove
€
microwave
€
table(s), chairs
STORAGE ROOM
6.21.1 Each library will have a storage room located inside the library that is a
minimum of 300 square feet (28 square metres)
6.22
LOBBY AREA
6.22.1 Each library will have a lobby area equipped with the following
6.23
€
Double automatic doors
€
Coat rack or hooks / closet for public use
€
Display area
€
Bulletin board
€
Book drop
UNASSIGNED SPACE
6.23.1 Each library will have minimum of 30% of total space allotted for the
following:
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€
Public and staff washroom(s). A minimum of one set of
wheelchair/scooter accessible family washrooms with biohazard
disposal container. Additional washrooms based on building codes
€
Custodian storage room
€
Mechanical, plumbing and electrical rooms (size determined by
building specifications)
€
Drinking fountain close to the activity room
7.0
GUIDELINES / RECOMMENDATIONS
7.1
FACILITY SIZE
7.1.1 The minimum recommended size of a library with a population served
under 4,000 is 5,500 square feet (511 square metres).
7.1.2 For libraries with a population served over 4,000, the minimum
recommended size is based on the total calculated space requirements
determined through the feasibility study / needs analysis.
7.2
COLLECTION SPACE
7.2.1 The total square footage of the collection should be based on the total
number of items divided by 10
7.2.2 Small sized libraries (population less than 4,000) should have a collection
of 5 to 7 items per capita
7.2.3 Medium sized libraries (population 4,000 – 9,999) should have a collection
of 4 to 6 items per capita
7.2.4 Large sized libraries (population 10,000 or more) should have a collection
of 3 to 5 items per capita
7.2.5 Library resource centres should have a collection of .5 to .75 items per
capita based on regional population
7.3
OTHER SPACES BASED ON COMMUNITY NEEDS
7.3.1 Libraries may have a multi-purpose room, as determined by community
needs analysis with the following amenities:
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€
Minimum of 600 square feet (56 square metres)
€
Large libraries and library resource centres may require more than
one multi-purpose room to meet community needs
€
Located near the children’s area
€
Storage space
€
Closet (large enough to store folding tables and stackable chairs)
€
Kitchen area with cabinets, sink, fridge, microwave, stove
€
Telephone
€
Audio-visual and information technology equipment
€
Wheelchair accessible washroom that is available outside library
open hours
€
Separate entrance to be accessible to the public outside library
open hours
€
Folding tables and stackable chairs
7.3.2 Libraries may have a local genealogy room, as determined by
community needs analysis.
7.4
CHECKLIST
7.4.1 To support the implementation of this Policy, the library
construction/renovation/expansion project team should refer to the latest
edition of the American Library Association document: Checklist of Library
Building Design Considerations (English only).
8.0
None.
REGIONAL GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES
NEW BRUNSWICK PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICE
POLICY 1003
9.0
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REFERENCES
New Brunswick Public Libraries Act. (http://laws.gnb.ca/en/BrowseTitle).
Sources / Recommended Reading
American Library Association. Checklist of Library Building Design Considerations.
Canadian Library Association. Canadian Guidelines on Library and Information
Services for People with Disabilities.
Canadian Standards Association. Accessible Design for the Built Environment.
Government of Manitoba. Municipal and Regional Public Library Standards and
Guidelines.
National Research Council of Canada. National Building Code of Canada.
Illuminating Engineering Society. Lighting Handbook.
10.0
CONTACTS FOR MORE INFORMATION
NBPLS Provincial Office, (506) 453-2354
ORIGINAL SIGNED BY
PROVINCIAL LIBRARIAN