A study on the characteristics of furniture composition in stay-type public libraries - Focusing on the Ishikawa Prefectural Library -

Contemporary public libraries have evolved beyond their traditional function of providing information, becoming multifaceted spaces that meet a wide range of social demands, including serving as community hubs, centers for learning and exchange, places for relaxation, and catalysts for urban regeneration. Amid these changes, the interior spaces of libraries now exhibit a spatial specificity in which public and private activities coexist, necessitating meticulous planning and design. In this context, furniture plays a pivotal role—not merely as physical fixtures, but as elements that define spatial structure and shape user experience. Particularly in stay-type libraries, furniture must be multifunctional and adaptable, providing comfort and efficiency to users who remain for extended periods through ergonomic design and technological integration. Modular furniture, mobile bookshelves, and adjustable tables and chairs maximize spatial utility and support diverse activities, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the library experience. Furthermore, the aesthetic qualities of furniture significantly shape the atmosphere of libraries, influencing user satisfaction and acting as a catalyst for increased visits and longer stays. Today, furniture extends beyond functional utility to foster communication and collaboration within the community, and it has emerged as a key element in reinforcing the identity of libraries as essential spaces for learning and culture within local communities.