Storage

Storage and systems...what goes where?
Storage and systems - what goes where?

A user friendly library depends on having the right sort of storage for books, leaflets and folders. Properly labelled storage will enable you to present a neat, well-organised library. Useage of the resources may increase as people find them more accessible.

The exact storage you choose will depend on the financial resources at your disposal, the space you have available and your preferences.

As a general rule storage should be:
Fit for purpose
For example, don't try to stack A5 leaflets in storage which is designed to hold A4 as they will droop and curl.
Uniform in design and colour
If you want any visual impact make sure you don't use several different size folders or magazine boxes in several different colours as this looks instantly untidy and confused.
In good condition
Re-using folders or magazine boxes is fine as long as they are not dirty or cracked.
Easy to re-label
Try to identify labelling you can easily remove and replace as your library evolves. An economy option may be to laminate and cut out your own labels (which should be designed to fit properly) and use sticky pads at attach them to magazine boxes.
Top tip!Tip: Gresswell Direct sell an excellent product called Labelclene, which dissolves label adhesive.
Secure
If you need to make your resources secure, glass fronted bookcases may be a good buy, but do ensure the selves are high and deep enough to contain your materials
Tough and strong

To get ideas, visit a range of other libraries if you have time, or if not, a good idea is to collect some catalogues of library supplies to have a look at the variety of storage and display equipment on the market.

(Library equipment is featured in Step 5)

Printable version of this pagePrint page
Close window