This book presents 40 recent public and academic libraries from around the world, with over 200 images. As the survey of precedents shows, the historical cases have informed the design of the recent libraries and the continuous development of the building type over time. Well-designed libraries are now in abundance, and the wider view of this study includes médiathèque and learning centres. The selection of contemporary projects focuses on urban libraries in Europe (Germany, Italy, Austria, Netherlands), the US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Japan, and China.
Dr. Steffen Lehmann, AA Dipl., Assoc. AIA, is a full professor of architecture at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is founder and principal of the design studio si architecture + urban design and has an extensive research and professional background. He has been, for 20 years, a chair professor holding senior roles at universities in the US, UK, and Australia. The book features a foreword by Kelvin Watson and a preface by Michelle Delk.