Ideal Library Design From Children's Perspective: A Phenomenological Study

ABSTRACT This study investigates how the ideal library space can be designed from the perspective of children. The research was conducted in public and school libraries in the Central Anatolia region of Türkiye using a phenomenological approach with 34 children aged 7–14 years. The data were analysed using MAXQDA software and categorised under four main themes: spatial design/physical layout, safety/comfort, services/activities and user groups/segmentation. The findings revealed that children see libraries not only as places for reading but also as centres for social interaction, learning and entertainment. Children's expectations included colourful and aesthetic designs, comfortable furniture, technological facilities, multifunctional spaces, integration of natural elements and spaces segmented by age group. This review adds a child‐centred perspective to the library design literature and provides an academic basis for designing spaces that meet the needs and expectations of children. The results of the study are in line with the user‐oriented and multifunctional space approach that is increasingly being adopted in modern library design.