At Camden Libraries we have been developing our service with a number of jigsaw pieces in mind: team, partnerships, marketing, funding, physical and digital infrastructure and programme and data.

Making our spaces attractive and flexible is a key ingredient to a modern library service, and we are about to start a research project with Cardiff University looking at libraries as social infrastructure. Holborn Library is a perfect example of this. The brief from the Council contains a number of conditions. The first was to improve the space which has not seen capital investment for 15 years but limit spending to a 5-year life span due to potential redevelopment plans. We also wanted to respect the 1950s and 1960s aesthetic, and to imagine what a neighbourhood space could be. 

The design choices and furnishings we have made reflect the original aesthetic, preserving the building’s retro charm. With the original blue mosaic tile pillars stripped back the space sings. Striking wall murals pay homage to influential creatives connected to the Borough of Camden, while bold graphic elements enhance the visual appeal, creating a vibrant atmosphere that appeals to both architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors. In the entrance we have created a community art hanging wall and we have introduced display cases where the local adult education provider, City Lit, have displayed student ceramics and 2D art. A piano in the entrance area adds a creative element and fills the space with music when talented local pianists drop by. 

Flexibility, functionality and inclusivity

We selected The Design Concept to carry out the redesign. At its heart was a commitment to adaptability and user-centric functionality. The refurbishment was funded by local community infrastructure levy, Section 106 funding, Clore Duffield Funding  and some internal capital funding including money to replace the lights with LED. Holborn Library hosts one of only two Clore Learning spaces in libraries. On the third floor was a large space which was being used for storage. With the funding from Clore Duffield we removed some partitions and agreed a licence to occupy for an organisation called ShiftED to move in. ShiftED provide making sessions for primary aged children and deliver sessions to classes Monday to Friday and additional sessions after school. This is a game changer for the library service who can make connections with the schools and promote reading and library membership to the children attending. ShiftED will also develop a programme for young people.

In the basement, which had not been used for at least 12 years except for storage and use of the public toilets, the space has been redecorated and is now home to a Workary managed by Wimbletech, a Lang Lang Piano academy and a space we hope a charity will use who run dance sessions for young people. The new layout is fluid and spacious, designed for easy reconfiguration to meet the library’s evolving needs. Multiple breakout areas now cater to a variety of user preferences, from quiet reading zones to social and collaborative spaces.

Quick pick book display points enhance accessibility and promote efficient browsing. Abundant study spaces, equipped with power outlets, are strategically distributed for both individual focus and collaborative group study sessions, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. A popular pod has been positioned on the mezzanine for private meetings or group study.

The children’s library has been significantly extended and now includes cosy reading nooks, sensory features, improved browsing units, enhanced seating, and a distinctive feature archway that invites young readers in. A play box first discovered on a trip to Leeds Libraries adds a great interactive activity box for families. 

The newly created lounge area gives a respectful nod to the building’s original architecture, offering a relaxed and stylish space for visitors. Next to this is a bespoke makerspace, an interactive area designed to inspire creativity and exploration, where users are also encouraged to display their work. An interactive screen gives the space flexibility. 

Sustainability and responsible reuse

Sustainability and responsible library interior design are central to our climate action plan, with a net zero ambition by 2030. A significant portion of the existing shelving was thoughtfully repurposed in a timeless reed green finish cladding, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with the refreshed aesthetic. The LED lighting also supported the sustainable approach.

Display, promotion, discovery!

The flexible shelving system allows for easy reconfiguration, accommodating angled display shelves for enhanced visibility and promotion of featured books. The shelving systems can be rearranged to spotlight featured titles and support promotional displays. With ample opportunities for face-on display, the library serves as an inviting platform for book promotion and advertising, fostering engagement and discovery among library users. The shelves are easily moved to enable large events to take place in the public space.

The Local Studies and Archive space kept its the original counter, maintaining a sense of continuity with the library’s heritage. A new bespoke retail unit has been added to the rear, complementing the existing timber cabinets and display cases, which have been enhanced with cladding. Mobile study and research tables, along with flexible seating, have been introduced to support a variety of uses, from quiet study to hosting events.

Designed for everyone

Accessibility was a core principle in the redesign. Walkways are carefully planned to ensure ease of navigation for wheelchair users and those with buggies, while shelving units are positioned within reach of both children and adults. 

Holborn Library is a space that is inclusive, inviting, and practical, one that promotes interaction, discovery, and a lifelong love of reading for all members of the community. 

This reimagined library now blends comfort with innovation, fostering a dynamic learning environment that supports both individual and community engagement. The library team supported the plans for redesign and now feel great pride coming into work each day. The impact on the team has been so positive. 

This year Holborn has been our second highest performer for Summer Reading Challenge starters, visits and book issues have increased and the feedback from the community has been so positive and appreciative.

You can access pictures and video of the redesigned library below. 

https://thedesignconcept.co.uk/inspiration/holborn-library-london