Nomad - N.ewspaper #5

Issue #5 from Nomad RDC www.nomad-rdc.com

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Nomad News

Hello

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Nomad News

Recent Projects

Featuring: ● VISION: Edinburgh Napier University ● Adam Smith Theater: Fife Council - OnFife ● Mitchell 23: G.C.C - Glasgow Life

● Work In Progress:

Fife Council - OnFife

● Nomad RDC:

People / Places App

● Nomad RDC: Camera Roll

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VISION - Imagining a future university estate ● Collaborating with the staff and students of Edinburgh Napier University on a holistic, in-depth exploration of the University's three Edinburgh campuses

to design and deliver a comprehensive people- centred engagement project, gathering insights from a plethora of stakeholders and collaborating with the workstreams to harness and develop their ideas.

+ Project Identity A bespoke identity using the project name to represent each workstream typographically and establish a creative and memorable approach to the consultation. + Digital Engagement A project blog and associated social media acted as a communications gateway, raising awareness of the project throughout the University community and beyond. + Stakeholder interviews One-to-one interviews with stakeholders from the University community drew out the project goals and high-level ideas and established the critical stimuli for the Design Jams. + Context Review A review of aspirational or innovative projects in parallel markets identified trends and provided supporting content for the

Design Jams.

the Design Jams were the cornerstone of the process. Ten Design Jams were held with three tiers of participants,

Website www.enuvision.co.uk X @ENUvision

+ Design Jams / Creative Workshops A series of iterative linked

creative co-design workshops held with ENU workstreams and students. The workstreams were organised in tiers

each comprising two of the University's workstreams, and it was fascinating to see the differences in views yet similarities

In 2019, Edinburgh Napier University embarked on a journey to develop a new strategy, 'Shaping the Future of Infrastructure and Estates' [SOFIE]. This ambitious project aims to enable ENU to deliver on its strategic objectives. The University assembled six workstreams to explore this project in detail and gather information on their specialist areas relating to the University estate, including all three campuses and the services that these provide. To reinforce this work, capture any overlapping information and ensure the approach was people- centred, the University expanded the project by appointing our Team

4'339 Blog Views

to allow information to snowball from one group to the next and maximise the innovation potential. + Student Competition The project was opened to the broader student community, offering a cash prize and an internship with the Nomad Team. + Exhibition The Design Jam project concepts were exhibited to the wider University community, who were given opportunities for feedback. With such a project, each method became vitally important. However,

across different groups.

We must use our principles to drive fundamental change and ensure that thinking steers the project - not architecture.

The project resulted in eight concept packages and an abundance of 'Quick Wins', providing University decision-makers with clear directions for current and future development.

The Vision Creative Consultation project employed several interlinked communication/ consultation methods, including;

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STATISTICS

SOFIE Design Principles

● Interviews: 18 ● Projects Reviewed: 52 ● Online Polls: 05 Polls

● Blog Visits: 3'084 ● Blog Views: 4'339

Info Gathering

● Visits from: 14 countries ● Creative Workshops: 09 ● Participants: 75 ● Concept Packages: 08 ● Exhibition Days: 03

Workstream Mtgs & Stakeholder Interviews

Challenge & Develop

Digital Resource Project Identity

KEY INSIGHTS ●  Useable outdoor spaces are becoming increasingly important post-pandemic. ●  Both students and staff crave a sense of belonging and community.

Workshops

Exhibition

●  Academic office space remains a contentious issue!

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VISION Cont'd ...

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vision

Shaping our Future – Infrastructure & Estate Strategy

Report August 2023

enuvision.co.uk

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Adam Smith Theatre - Shaping a Creative Hub ● A community engagement project exploring the services and facilities most relevant to the local people in this newly refurbished and historic theatre OnFife Relevant Identity

+Engage and support the community. +Form a vibrant community hub. +Create a place that is relevant, welcoming and inclusive. +Generate a legacy framework for how OnFife engages with the community moving forward.

Our team have taken a four- pronged approach to this project comprising;

The project is ongoing, with an estimated completion

Website www.relevantonfife.co.uk X @RelevantOnFife

date of September 2023. Still, the online side of Relevant has been active for several months and has had a terrific response,

370 Polls Taken

Identity A strong project identity developed to badge other local

The Adam Smith Theatre [AST] in Kirkcaldy has been closed for refurbishment for two years, and there have been many delays, not to mention the minor issue of COVID-19. However, the re-opening is planned for September 2023. OnFife wanted to ensure that the project is relevant to the Fife community and decided to take a more collaborative approach by engaging the Nomad Team to work with the project stakeholders and the community to understand what services and facilities would be most relevant to them, frame the issues, develop and test solutions. The goal of the Relevant project is to;

theatre projects, including Lochgelly and Levenmouth. Website A project blog designed to raise awareness, engage the community and gather information via online polls. Design Jams A series of interlinked creative service design workshops exploring how, what, when and why the building will be used and how it might evolve. Staff Upskilling A process designed to give AST staff people- centred skills and provide a framework for the ongoing relationship with the community.

garnering over 3000 Views and 370 Poll responses to date. Watch this space for more news about the ongoing AST project and this exciting and vibrant community hub.

Going to see David Bowie. We were sitting upstairs on the balcony, and because the audience was rather sparse, he asked if everyone would come to sit downstairs in the front rows.

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STATISTICS... SO FAR ●  Online Polls: 04 ●  Blog Views: 300 ●  Live Polls: 01 ●  Pop-Up Days: 01 ●  Design Jams (TBC): 04 ●  Upskilling Pack (TBC): 01 KEY INSIGHTS ●  The role of theatres in our communities is expanding beyond the primary function of performance. ●  The community is as essential a part of a place's identity as the history and architecture. ●  Theatres are not only places of creativity but can be healing and community- building spaces.

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Mitchell 23 - Envisioning the Future of a Landmark ● A creative collaboration with Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Life staff to explore the spaces and services of this much-loved icon

GCC and Glasgow want to restore the Mitchell Library, establishing it as one of the great civic libraries of the 21st century and recognised internationally as sector- leading and sustainable. To start this journey, they needed to begin with a vision constructed from the ideas of key stakeholders and the people who know the building best, the GCC and Glasgow Life staff. The Nomad Team were appointed to work with these participants and carry out an intensive people- centred visioning piece for the future of The Mitchell Library. The Mitchell 23 Visioning project employed five methods; Photo Survey A two-day survey to aid our team in understanding the spaces, uncover the spatial issues and bring to life the

building's many beautiful and hidden aspects.

aspirational or innovative projects in other markets

Income Generation to User Experience, each

The Mitchell Library

to identify trends, cycles, and lessons that may help predict or inform future services and space.

bursting with ideas. Exhibition participants were invited to scan a QR code to access an online poll and give

"A livingroom for the city!"

63 Projects Reviewed

The Mitchell Library is a Glasgow icon and the hub of the city's network of 32 public libraries. For almost a century and a half, The Mitchell Library has been a trusted place of learning and creativity, a source of information, empowerment and inspiration for the people of Glasgow and beyond. However, with failing building fabric and infrastructure, a long-term lack of investment in both collection management and digital service development, and spatial/ accessibility challenges, The Mitchell Library and its purpose need substantial re-visioning to continue being relevant and vital to the city.

feedback.

The Mitchell has a wealth of resources that are invisible... We need to unpack The Mitchell and present them to the public.

Design Jams A series of linked Creative Workshops with GCC and Glasgow Life staff to explore the future potential of the Mitchell, unlock their tacit knowledge and generate innovative ideas. Mitchell 23 Exhibition A month-long exhibition featuring the Design Jam outputs, including two time capsules that invite audience participation. The first capsule asks for the visitor's first memory of The Mitchell, while the second asks for their hopes and fears for the future of The Mitchell Library. The Design Jam participants generated six concept packages ranging from

The exhibition has just closed, and we are still processing the response. However, one thing is clear - Libraries continue to evolve, they continue to be relevant, and they continue to amaze us!

Interviews Scripted interviews with key stakeholders, staff and external specialists/guests to determine the project requirements, goals and explore innovative ideas. Project Context A review of international library design and

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A list of bespoke prototype cards selected by participants and used to build the Concept Models shown below. Prototype cards capture details about a space or place’s how, when, who, and why and the contents were extracted from previous workshop outputs: WHEN - Open or closed, peak visiting times. - Morning - Afternoon - Evening Partnerships Innovative Space

Conferences and Events

Maker Spaces

Wayfinding + Comms The following ideas were developed by the participants throughout all three Creative Workshops. Journey & Arrival Online tours of the Collection and Archive could be available for download from the website. Audio and video tours of the Collection, architecture and wayfinding with descriptions of the building utilising staff voices could also be available. The Mitchell should be a place where people can easily navigate, gather information, and intuitively pilot internal spaces and services. The Mitchell should be a creative and commercial cultural experience that responds to the audience requirements. The Mitchell should be a place that is mentally, physically and emotionally accessible from the moment of arrival until the customer leaves the building. Accessibility and Inclusion Or focus more on health and wellbeing with topics such as; • Stress management The Mitchell is and should be a place for exploring, retrieving, sharing and making all kinds of information. Places to Work

A list of bespoke prototype cards selected by participants and used to build the Concept Models shown below. Prototype cards capture details about a space or place’s how, when, who, and why and the contents were extracted from previous workshop outputs: WHEN - Open or closed, peak visiting times. - Morning - Afternoon - Evening Heritage Space

WHO - The Audience - Existing Customers - New Customers WHERE - A place or space - N/A Old + New Services The following ideas were developed by the participants throughout all three Creative Workshops. Workshops Rationalising Stacks & Collections infrastructure and staff support digital services have the required tech training. The Mitchell should be a home from home, a safe, inclusive, welcoming civic place with places to work, reflect and be quiet.

A list of bespoke prototype cards selected by participants and used to build the Concept Models shown below. Prototype cards capture details about a space or place’s how, when, who, and why and the contents were extracted from previous workshop outputs: WHEN - Open or closed, peak visiting times. - Morning - Afternoon - Evening

User Experience The following ideas were developed by the participants throughout all three Creative Workshops.

A list of bespoke prototype cards selected by participants and used to build the Concept Models shown below. Prototype cards capture details about a space or place’s how, when, who, and why and the contents were extracted from previous workshop outputs: WHEN - Open or closed, peak visiting times. - Often

- Week Day - Week End - Often “It’s about creating some sort of buzz, might be workshops, might be classes.”

- Week Day - Week End “We keep the city’s history from the 12th to the 21st century, so we look forward to something that does this justice.” Access + Accessibility The following ideas were developed by the participants throughout all three Creative Workshops. Entice Sense of Place Optimise the experience of the atrium and celebrate the building’s historical features to instil in the user a strong sense of history and place. Consider highlighting much-loved features. Restore the ‘old quarter’ including the Jeffrey’s, Burns and the Reading Room. A vital part of the user experience should be to engage with Glasgow as a place. Collaborate with Museums to provide opportunities to explore Glasgow’s ‘Clyde built’ and literary heritage, acknowledges the city’s legacy of slavery and explore the potential for creating a heritage trail. “Its hard to navigate The Mitchell which makes it intimidating.” stairs and lifts, which can be ‘hidden’ in the current layout. Connect with customers by creating a welcoming place with a café, dwelling space, breakout spaces and visible staff. Workshops are an excellent way to deliver and develop information. Help people to learn how to use the library better by providing workshops focussing on traditional library • Active lifestyle • Mental health • First aid • Autism Practical Information ins and appointments for more in-depth 1-2-1s. The Family History Centre concept could be expanded into a one-stop shop including specialist advice and information on the Special Collection, Archives and the Registrar. Children’s Library The Mitchell should have a larger, more prominent and The Mitchell Library has the potential to generate income by creating a range of engaging opportunities for tours, tourism, conferences, events, partnerships and retail options focusing on The Mitchell’s unique content.

WHAT - An activity or service - Showcasing staff knowledge - Different languages - Library Workshops ( writing, poetry, + Vintage Christmas cards. + Stationery vending machines. Makers Spaces: Variety of Space The following ideas were developed by the participants throughout all three Creative Workshops. Multi-Disciplinary: - Week Day - Week End - Often Income Generation The following ideas were developed by the participants throughout all three Creative Workshops.

A list of bespoke prototype cards selected by participants and used to build the Concept Models shown below. Prototype cards capture details about a space or place’s how, when, who, and why and the contents were extracted from previous workshop outputs: WHEN - Open or closed, peak visiting times. N/A WHO - The Audience N/A WHERE - A place or space - Event and Exhibitions Space WHAT - An activity or service - Showcasing staff knowledge - Different languages - Celebrating original spaces + features - Café - Shop - Art + Exhibitons - Maps + Wayfinding DIGITAL - online or onsite

WHO - The Audience - Existing Customers - New Customers - Tourists - Community “I’d love to see in the Mitchell like that kind of living room for the city element that peo- ple go there to be and to have cultural expe- riences.”

A list of bespoke prototype cards selected by participants and used to build the Concept Models shown below. Prototype cards capture details about a space or place’s how, when, who, and why and the contents were extracted from previous workshop outputs: WHEN - Open or closed, peak visiting times. - Morning - Afternoon - Evening

- Week Day - Week End

WHO - The Audience - Existing Customers - New Customers - Non Users - Children and Families - Young People - Tourists - Students - Community - Cultural Connections

WHO - The Audience - Existing Customers - New Customers - Children and Families - Tourists - Community WHERE - A place or space - Children + Family Area - Collaborative Space - Pop-ups - Event and Exhibitions Space - Flexible Workshop Space - Music booths (soundproofed) - Theatre/Cinema - Community Space

Accessibility Remove all barriers and make the routes through the building clearer and more intuitive. Improve the signage systems to be clearer and include interactive and hard-copy building maps. Increase the visibility of key navigation features such as doors, access points, corridors, stairs and lifts, which can be hidden in the current layout. Rationalise Spaces Rationalise the layout to create clearer paths and better spaces. Examine customer desire lines to learn how people really want to use the building. Improve manual handling, and open the stacks to the public while providing secure storage. Enhance browsability and easy access by creating listings for collections. Improve the book stock layout to make materials easier for users to locate and to ensure the product is not spread across multiple sites.

WHO - The Audience - Existing Customers - New Customers - Children and Families - Young People - Tourists - Students - Academics & Researchers - Start ups - Community - Cultural Connections - Schools - Partners WHERE - A place or space - Children + Family Area - Collaborative Space - Dwelling space

WHERE - A place or space - Dear Green Place (Biophilia) - Pop-ups - Event and Exhibitions Space - Wellbeing Place WHAT - An activity or service - Celebrating original spaces + features - Makers Space - Café - Shop - Conferences - Tours (Archives + Building)

Display & Exhibition Enhance Mitchell’s creative identity by providing arts, exhibitions, music/theatre events, pop-ups and makers spaces. Workshop participants described their vision for Display and Exhibition as opportunities to host touring exhibitions and feature the Collection as you journey through the building focusing on interpretation. “if you are going to the building for another reason, you can’t help but look up at the building and the walls, and what does that do in terms of a creative response.” Active & Passive Spaces Passive Spaces such as study or silent spaces are essential, but it is optional to co-locate these with the Collection or the book stock. Active areas that offer creative activities such as cinema, music and performance spaces, places to create and display new works, and a garden cafe must also be explored.

Places to Play The Mitchell should have a larger, more prominent and inspiring children’s area supported by enthusiastic staff who are current on the latest ways to engage children. Engage different generations with intergenerational displays, including memories and stories of everyday users. These spaces should be bright, colourful and conveniently located and provide support such as a cafe, buggy spaces and better seating for breastfeeding. Storage Workshop participants discussing the UX highlighted storage, specifically addressing the question of on-site or off-site storage for the Collection/Archive. The participants summed up their thoughts; “If the collection stays on site, you will not have space for any of these things.” “It’s about creating some sort of buzz, might be workshops, might be classes.”

be expanded to be a one-stop-shop for information on the Special Collection, Archives and the Registrar. Innovations Consider an audience-driven flexible space with high-spec tech to support events. The innovation space could be a place where people can use or try tech that they otherwise would not be able to access or somewhere they could create work, such as a maker’s space. Provide digital access to the collection. Provide levels of digital engagement that help clarify and define the offer and make the onsite materials more engaging. Collaborate with partners such as Museums who have experience in digitising and interpreting information to make it personable, accessible, unique and site-specific.

Optimise the experience of the atrium and celebrate the building’s historical features to instil in the user a strong sense of history and place. Consider highlighting much-loved features such as the black and white corridor, the dome and the statues and consider these a starting point for new decor. Restore the ‘old quarter’ including the Jeffrey’s, Burns and the Reading Room. A vital part of the user experience should be to engage with Glasgow as a place. Collaborate with Museums to provide opportunities to explore Glasgow’s ‘clyde-built’ and literary heritage, acknowledge the city’s legacy of slavery and even consider a heritage trail. Active Space The Mitchell should be a mixed-use place comprising a range of free and revenue-building services such as exhibitions, events, conferences, and workshops housed in flexible/ adaptable spaces and supported by a retail outlet. Volunteers could provide expertise to help build Creative Workshops on topics such as; • Coding and digital skills • Family history • Writing & Development Provide information points, more prominent signs, information

and pop-up exhibitions for library departments. These pop- ups should be bright, accessible, fun, and inspiring with the collections or objects on show. Places to Work and Passive Spaces Include a broad range of people-focused study spaces, from quiet or private areas such as study carrels, book nooks and meeting spaces to group workspaces such as group study carrels, family spaces and flexible spaces for workshops and talks. Meeting spaces and group work rooms could be available for hire, and all areas should be safe, inclusive and welcoming with a sense of home from home. A Heritage Centre Family history is a popular service. Consider the addition of a Family/Local History Centre or Heritage Centre. The Family History Centre should include an exhibition space where people can browse, a place for drop-ins and appointments for more in-depth 1-2-1s. The Family History Centre concept could

Provide digital access to the Collections and levels of digital engagement that help clarify and define the offer. Make the onsite materials more engaging. Collaborate with partners with experience in digitising and interpreting information to make it personable, accessible unique and site-specific, such as Glasgow Museums. Consider an audience-driven flexible Innovation Space that reflects the community’s and any partners’ needs. The Innovation Space should be a place where people can use or try tech that they otherwise would not be able to access. music practice rooms, family space in children’s areas, pod seats and flexible workshop spaces. Meeting rooms and storage for staff are required, and all spaces should be practical, focused and tranquil. Innovative Space:

about their interests and collaborate with staff to explore their knowledge of the best areas for events. Partnership: Partnerships with businesses, universities, schools, and the local community could produce attractive revenue opportunities, while funding and sponsorship schemes could also result in valuable income streams. Retail: The Mitchell has a wealth of marketable materials that could be an invaluable source of income. An online and onsite shop linked to social media could sell a range of unique Mitchell Library merchandise and other goods, such as,

city’s legacy of slavery and even examine the potential for a heritage trail. Hospitality: An informal cafe experience with affordable offerings could be considered alongside a more formal rooftop restaurant for special events. The rooftop restaurant could be embedded in a roof garden with opportunities for community gardening and beehives, creating the potential for new income streams and training possibilities. Conferences and Events: The Theatre could be developed as a conference venue or be transformed into a wide-screen cinema to tell the Glasgow Story. Other suggested ideas are flexible spaces for various income-generating events and activities, including weddings, co-working spaces and spaces for cultural or third-sector tenants. Workshop participants recommend collaboration between staff and volunteers to consult with current users

Information desks and multi-lingual search terminals should be added to all main entries, and mini info desks with volunteer greeters could also be considered. Dedicated pop-up exhibition spaces featuring RUVI or library departments would further assist users to self-orientate. Promote better communication with staff by providing a platform to inform staff about the current focus, projects and issues. Provide a place to highlight good projects, how departments work, and who staff are, and encourage staff input/feedback. Consider a mini-newspaper and social media feed promoting good news between staff or departments and provide places where staff can collaborate and socialise. services such as; • Archive searches • Safe info search • Reading • Poetry • Genealogy

Connect with the city and make The Mitchell more accessible by providing online information on more accessible transport links via a website or app, increasing opening hours to be more convenient for people with different working patterns and adding the Mitchell as a stop on the Glasgow sightseeing tour. Enhance the sense of arrival by addressing the ‘unpleasant front door’, strategically reviewing entrances to establish the best model, and ensuring all doors and access points are visible, open and welcoming. Communication Improve communication throughout with staff and customers. Ensure that the online information is of an excellent standard to provide digital wayfinding for customers who may have yet to visit The Mitchell or those who are virtual visitors only.

Ensure that the online information is of an excellent standard to provide access for customers who may have yet to visit The Mitchell or those who are virtual visitors only. Provide a welcome tour for new visitors. Approach and Arrival Improve the sense of arrival by addressing some of the issues around the approach, specifically the ‘unpleasant front door’ and its proximity to the motorway. Strategically review all entrances to establish the best model and ensure all doors and access points are visible, open and welcoming. A large main entrance could open the building up. Direct public access to the cafe should be added via Kent Road, while the

Granville Road entrance could open onto a more prominent and inspiring children’s area. Information desks and multi- lingual search terminals should be added to all main entries, particularly North Street. Accessibility and Inclusion Remove all barriers and make the routes through the building clearer and more intuitive. Improve the signage systems to be clearer and include interactive and hard-copy building maps. Create multi-use spaces, including community, event, and exhibition spaces. Examine customer desire lines to learn how people really want to use the building. Increase the visibility of key navigation features such as doors, access points, corridors,

ins and appointments for more in-depth 1-2-1s. Passive Spaces combine public and staff functions and include the stacks, reading nooks, dwell space and the Stirling Room, all of which should be secure, focused and calm. Places to Play: Flexible, creative spaces that support book festivals, exhibitions, pop-ups, music/theatre performances and makers spaces are essential. The Mitchell must engage with different generations by including a prominent, inspiring children’s area and intergenerational displays, including memories and stories of everyday people. These spaces should be bright, colourful and conveniently located and provide support such as a cafe, buggy spaces and better seating for breastfeeding. Places to Work: Provide smaller, more intimate spaces for individuals, including book nooks in shelving, comfortable seats and better group study spaces, such as group study carrels, soundproofed

inspiring children’s area supported by enthusiastic staff who are current on the latest ways to engage children. Engage different generations by incorporating intergenerational displays, including memories and stories of everyday users. These spaces should be bright, colourful and conveniently located and provide support such as a cafe, buggy spaces and better seating for breastfeeding. Digital Services & Innovation Invest in cutting-edge IT solutions, including hybrid conference tech, interactive building maps, signs and sound equipment to support oral history recording. Ensure a robust

Audience Develop and define The Mitchell’s current and future audience by undertaking visitor studies and developing a strategic plan. History and Place Improve the sense of arrival by addressing some of the issues around the approach, including the ‘unpleasant front door’ and reviewing all the entrance points to ensure they are visible, welcoming and accessible. Ensure that the online information is of an excellent standard to provide access for customers who may have yet to visit The Mitchell or virtual visitors only.

Makers’ spaces are mentioned across most final themes. However, this was explicitly raised by workshop participants participating in the Generating Income Affinity Map. “We are also really interested in some sort of makers space or somewhere that can support local craftspeople or local artists, maybe through a dedicated bookbinding lab and generating income.”

Tours and Tourism: Online tours of the collection and archive could be made available for download from the website for a small fee. Audio and video tours of the collection, architecture or wayfinding tours with descriptions of the building could utilise staff voices to engage both staff and visitors. Build connections with an international audience by marketing the already successful ancestral tourism service and engaging with groups such as Visit Scotland and Our Shared Cultural Heritage to promote unique Glasgow events.

genealogy + archives) - Maps + Wayfinding - Nooks and Crannies - Colour Coding - Active Space - Collaborative Space - Groups Space Define the Mitchell as a destination by embracing exciting ideas such as a working theatre and cinema, a sound studio where users can record oral histories, makers’ spaces and a roof garden reinforcing Glasgow’s identity as a ‘Dear Green Place.’ Heritage Space: Cont. below Improve the sense of arrival by maximising the atrium. Celebrate the building’s heritage by highlighting unique features such as the black and white corridor, dome and statues and consider these a starting point for new decor. Celebrate the building’s function by highlighting the dumb waiter to demonstrate how a library of this scale works.

Advice about the building and services should be supplied at information desks which could be staffed with voluntary greeters. Information such as wayfinding signs, maps, toilet locations, water sources, accessibility, and wifi should be clearer and more prominent. Family history Family history is a popular service. Create a Family History Centre staffed with knowledgeable professionals and volunteers. The Family History Centre should include an exhibition space where people can browse, a place for drop-

Connect with the city and make The Mitchell more accessible by providing online information on transport links via a website or app, increasing opening hours to be more convenient for people with different working patterns and include more secure bike storage and parking. Consulting with the locals to find out what they want and need and observing the ‘pathways of desire’ or routes regulars intuitively take should inform any new accessible plans.

Rationalising Stacks & Collections Rationalise the spaces to create more explicit paths and better zones. Improve manual handling, and open the stacks to the public while providing secure storage. Enhance browsability and easy access by creating listings for collections and improving the book stock layout to make materials easier for users to locate, ensuring that the product is not spread across multiple sites.

- Schools - Partners WHERE - A place or space - Children + Family Area - Pop-ups Cont. below

The Mitchell Library should be a multi-disciplinary place with a range of different services and adaptable spaces supporting various skills, including arts, music and academia. These spaces should be ‘stops’ on a ‘multi-stop’ visitor’s journey and must be designed to react to an exploration of customer needs and preferences. Active & Passive Spaces: Active spaces are accessible, welcoming, supported, informed, inspiring and people focused, with multiple options from silent study to group work. Active spaces should include the archive and special collections and a ‘Family History Centre’ comprising an exhibition space to browse and a place for drop-

- Digital infrastructure - Interactive Resources

+ Stationery supplies. + Prints of photos or special collection items. + Themed postcards. + Mitchell Library carpet cross-stitch patterns.

Collaborate with Museums to provide opportunities to explore Glasgow’s ‘clydebuilt’ and literary heritage, acknowledge the

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STATISTICS... SO FAR ●  Site Survey Days: 03 ●  Photos Taken: 363 ●  Interviews: 18 ●  Projects Reviewed: 63 ●  Design Jams: 03 ●  Fab Locations: 04 ●  Exhibitions Days: 30

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Rethink Granville entrance (Perhaps kids library)

One large entrance on Kent Rd (Opens up building)

Places to Play Affinity Maps Conferences and Events

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Mitchell Theatre

Direct public entrance into cafe

Developed as a destination conference venue

Colour coding departments.

Retail

Makers Spaces

w/screen - The Glasgow story

- Event and Exhibitions Space - Theatre/Cinema - Community Space WHAT - An activity or service - Different languages - Tourism - Art + Exhibitons - Family History - Reference Collection - Archives - Special collections DIGITAL - online or onsite - Digital infrastructure - Interactive Resources USER EXPERIENCE - Accessibility (Lifts + Doors) - Bright + Fun - Memories / Stories - Inclusion - UX Consultation - Safe - Welcoming - Communication - Home from home - Identity (International, local, Glaswegian) USER GENERATED n/a POST-IT COMMENTS - Flexible spave v.important

“Layout is horrendous, with subjects often located in two or three places and Dewey decimal runs that people don’t understand.” All other zones were assigned 10% each. However, ‘Doors and Access points ’, which must be more accessible, visible and inviting, were linked to the two larger zones by ‘Digital Affinity Maps Accessibility and Inclusion Abstract Conceptual Maps produced by workshop participants. The Maps explore relationships, synergies and proportions of spaces and services. This map centres around two key themes, ‘Active / Flexible space’ and ‘Places to Work’ , each assigned 25% of the space. ‘Active / Flexible space’ contains spaces and activities that the participants state should be available, “whether they are revenue building or not.”

WHAT - An activity or service - Makers Space - Café - Conferences - Tourism - Tours (Archives + Building) - Rented Space - Art + Exhibitons - Glasgow Events + Festivals - New Skills Classes - Library Workshops ( writing, poetry, need to unpack The Mitchell and present them to the public.” Heritage Space “The Mitchell has a wealth of resources that are invisible...We

“if you are going to the building for another reason, you can’t help but look up at the build- ing and the walls, and This active space is described as safe, welcoming, supported, informed, and inspiring. ‘Passive spaces’ at 20%, the second largest zone, is split between public and staff functions and is described as Innovative Space what does that do in terms of a creative re- sponse.” practical, secure, focused and calm. ‘Places to play’, ‘places to work’ and ‘innovation’ were all assigned 10%, linking back into ‘active space’ . ‘Places to play’ comprises a children’s area, maker’s spaces and a cafe and is described as a relaxing, fun and creative place.

Rationalising Stacks & Collections

DIGITAL - online or onsite - Website (inc digitised collection) - Social Media - Online Catalogue - Interactive Resources USER EXPERIENCE - Better Transport (buses + trains.) - Active Travel (bike + on foot) - Entrances + Access - Accessibility (Lifts + Doors) - Glasgow Heritage Trail / Sightseeing Stop - Inclusion - Wayfinding - Safe - Welcoming - Communication - Spatial Connections USER GENERATED - Bookshelves / Layout - Info Desk “Thinking around the Burrel & Riverside - people can access more material, information, content, and more inspiring objects or artefacts - That’s where the magic happens, and we’ve hidden all of that.” Registrar's Office? Destination venue Inspired Calm Dynamic

Affinity Maps Places to Work

Celebrating old features in improving accessibility - lifts

More entrance points e.g Kent Road

“There is a question about what the customer encounters first - the civic living room and human interaction, the digital labs and then the tradition services?”

Lighting Colour- coding

LocHal - See Affinity Map

- Rented Space - Family History - Library Workshops ( writing, poetry, genealogy + archives)

“Should be a neutral space for everyone - core function

Affinity Maps Abstract Conceptual Maps produced by workshop participants. The Maps explore relationships, synergies and proportions of spaces and services.

- Dear Green Place (Biophilia) - Pop-ups - Event and Exhibitions Space - Flexible Workshop Space - Music booths (soundproofed) - Study Carrels - Theatre/Cinema - Wellbeing Place WHAT - An activity or service - Different languages - Celebrating original spaces + features - Tours (Archives + Building) - Art + Exhibitons - Glasgow Events + Festivals - Library Workshops ( writing, poetry, genealogy + archives) - Drop ins + appointments for more in depth 1-2-1’s - One Stop Shop (Special Collections, - Quiet / Silent Space - Collaborative Space - Groups Space - Individual Space - Contemplative Space DIGITAL - Online or onsite - Online public access catalogue (Opacs) - Conference Tech - Digital infrastructure - Online Catalogue - Interactive Resources Archives and Registrar.) - Reference Collection - Colour Coding

Abstract Conceptual Maps produced by workshop participants. The Maps explore relationships, synergies and proportions of spaces and services. ‘Corridors, Stairs, and Lifts’ is the central focus of this map. Workshop participants complained that when entering the building, little is visible, the signage does not work well, and the staircases are hidden. Routes through the building must be clearer and more intuitive. ‘Bookshelving/Layout’ was also assigned a large proportion of space on the map. Participants noted that the current;

‘Transport Information’ was not assigned a percentage of space. Still, the Group were keen to highlight the benefits of knowing about the transport links and the need to provide information on the website or any app.

USER EXPERIENCE - Entrances + Access - Accessibility (Lifts + Doors) USER GENERATED - Everyone - 24/7 destination venue, inspired, calm and dynamic. The remaining zones were much smaller proportions of space, including ‘information’ at 6%, ‘support’ at 5%, ‘display’ 3% ‘transport and utilities’ at 2% each.

Affinity Maps

partners needs were highlighted as the most critical item within this. ‘Display and exhibition’ , ‘active’ and ‘passive’ spaces were all assigned 10%. The Group described their vision for ‘Display and exhibition’ as a series of opportunities to host touring exhibitions and feature the collection as you journey through the building focusing on interpretation. ‘Passive’ is defined as study or silent spaces but not necessarily connected to the collection or the books. While ‘active’ is explained as various creative services/spaces,

including a garden cafe, film, music, and the creation of new works. The remaining items, ‘play’ and ‘work’ , were only assigned 5% each. Interestingly ‘building tours’ and ‘car park’ were shown on the map but not given any detail or a percentage of space.

“I think also places for people to be able to sort of play creatively like maker spaces and things are interesting concepts to think about bringing different groups into the library.”

In ‘Innovations’ 10%, the workshop participants made several recommendations, such as accessible tech for the public, high-spec tech to support events, income generation, and makers spaces. The participants were keen to point out that the above should reflect what people genuinely need and want. The remaining zones included ‘Places to Play’ , which concentrates on providing quality children’s space, ‘Information’ at 5%, focusing on service areas and information desks and, finally, ‘Support’ and ‘Transport’ at 3% 2%, respectively.

These spaces include exhibitions, events and workshop spaces. ‘Places to Work’ and ‘Passive Spaces’ include a wide variety of study spaces, from group study to quiet or private areas, study carrels and meeting spaces that could be available for hire. Creating places that provide a sense of home from home was also important in this category. ‘Family / Localhistory / Heritage Centre’ was assigned 15% of the space, with little detail.

- Wingback Chairs - New Skills Classes DIGITAL - online or onsite - Website (inc digitised collection) - Social Media USER EXPERIENCE - Bright + Fun - Glasgow Legacy - Glasgow Literary Heritage - Glasgow Heritage Trail / Sightseeing Stop - Memories / Stories - Inclusion - Safe - Welcoming - Home from home - Identity (International, local, Glaswegian) - Showcasing Staff Knowledge - Showcasing Volunteer Knowledge USER GENERATED - All Day - Weddings POST-IT COMMENTS - Like the idea of merch based on collections. - User-centred. Based on Values. - Workshops + Digital - Cafe - Events- Shop “We are also really interested in some sort of makers space or somewhere that can support local craftspeople or local artists, maybe through a dedicated bookbinding lab and generating income.”

Abstract Conceptual Maps produced by workshop participants. The Maps explore relationships, synergies and proportions of spaces and services.

Hospitality comprised a casual cafe experience with affordable offerings inside the building alongside a more formal rooftop restaurant for special events. ‘Retail’ was assigned a significantly lower space ratio at 15%. However, the team produced many innovative ideas (See main text above). Exhibitions, Digitisation and Donations follow with 10% each.

Identity ‘The Old Quarter’ Inc. Burns, Jeffrey, Poeh(sp), Glasgow & Stirling

Comfy seats for individuals for up to two people

Keep, but sound proof the music booths.

Book nooks in shelving / set into windows

Utilising existing display cases

Glasgow room as exhibition space

‘Information’ was the core concept at the centre of this affinity map at 35%. It contains only two elements, Library Books and Family History - a third item, ‘support’ 3%, is located within this larger zone. ‘Innovation’ was viewed as the next priority scoring 15%. Audience-driven flexible space reflecting the community’s and

Rethinking the Building

navigation’ where workshop participants recommend touchscreens and apps with wayfinding information; “So before you even get to the building, you have the tools to navigate yourself.” synergies and proportions of spaces and services. Participants described this affinity map as building blocks, explaining that if you begin with the largest percentage of space, ‘outside - the rest can be built upon it’ . The customer’s approach and arrival are perceived to be Abstract Conceptual Maps produced by workshop participants. The Maps explore relationships,

Other areas highlighted for improvement included; • The ‘unpleasant front’ , including the north street access and its proximity to the motorway. • Infomation desks, particularly at the North Street entrance. • Entrances on all surrounding streets. Public space was assigned 30% of the maps and included; • Better, more secure bike storage and parking.

• Search terminals with many languages at all entrances. • A greater variety of quiet / group working spaces, including workshop-type spaces. • A bigger and better children’s area, possibly using the Anderson space.

Abstract Conceptual Maps produced by workshop participants. The Maps explore relationships, synergies and proportions of spaces and services.

‘Places to work’ features flexible space, study carrels and music for customers and offices, storage and meeting rooms for staff. Both are defined as practical, secure, focused, and calm, and participants referenced the curtain in LocHal (See above) as an excellent way to create flexible space. “Spaces are mingled, not one space fits all.“ The ‘Innovation’ space contains exciting ideas such as a cinema, a dynamic kids area and a roof garden while celebrating the building’s heritage by highlighting historical features such as the dumb waiter. This space was labelled a

- Cover or get rid of the motorway - Information point at all entrances POST-IT COMMENTS - Building blocks to the new North Street door. - Love the inviting, welcoming entrance! - Agree about covering the motorway. Improve the area at the front. - Trad architecture in reference to the doorway. - Welcoming to everyone. For everyone. - I really like the entrance as a support. - Good representation. Concept models made by workshop participants using bespoke prototype cards. should be free, but new specialist or innovative services should charge.”

Archives & Special

Smaller, more intimate spaces

Events and Hospitality dominated this affinity map at 30% and 25%, respectively. Workshop participant events ideas included theatre, cinema and conference events coupled with flexible space for various activities, including weddings, group or co-working space and space for tenants from the culture or third sector.

Books to be returned to shelves

Keep the study carrels - Provide more

Rationalising the spaces, connecting the buildings and departments, improving accessibility and activating the old meaningful and beautiful places and things

Atrium

collections & Registrar co- located

“User-focused but with a nod to the staff, as it won’t work without them.” The focus of this map was ‘active space’ at 40%, comprising a combination of general study/silent space, family history, special collections, the archive and the theatre. All are connected by walkways linking each floor.

Black & white corridor & walls / dome & statues on top - Mitchell features (existing) as new decor

Install lifts for accessibility

Restore the old reading room

genealogy + archives) - Collaborative Space - Groups Space - Individual Space DIGITAL - online or onsite - Conference Tech - Sound Recording Equipment

problematic, and participants emphasised the need to get this right suggesting examining the pathways of desire to establish the best and most intuitive routes.

For general self-led reading from shelves

Create for workshops / Talks. Versatile spaces

Incorporate with a new building or new design of stack/public area

High spec tech - key for events/activities. + income generation

Showing the inner workings of a public library

Accommodate groups from 2-8

Reading Space + Remote digital access. + Digitisation lab - Presentations, access, sales. + Workshops to support community digitisation. + Easy to navigate but state-of-the-art. Creating a home from home Effective Sustainable

Link corridor - Multiple access points to central space

10%

Group study carrel

Dumb-waiter redevelopment

Group study spaces

Breakout Space

Staff + Public facilities

Changing places

10% Accessible Practical Safe

More family areas in children’s section

Makers space

Doors / Access Points

More pod seats (Or alternatives)

Group music practice rooms

Coding

- Digital infrastructure - Interactive Resources USER EXPERIENCE - Better Transport (buses + trains.) - Active Travel (bike + on foot) - Glasgow Heritage Trail / Sightseeing Stop Concept models made by workshop participants using bespoke prototype cards. Practical Secure Focused Calm

Active - Theatre / Perf. - Conference - Cafe

n

North St. access issues. Motorway problems & Stairs

2% Utilities - Boiler room - Servers - Toilets - Kitchen - Enviro controls - Cleaner spaces

Toilets/ Kitchen + 2 part space (e.g V&A - some free, some charged). + Historic reflecting architecture of the building, but practical. + Photos displayed around building with link to buy. Unpleasant front

Concept models made by workshop participants using bespoke prototype cards.

10% Innovation

Storage

10%

KEY INSIGHTS ●  The Mitchell Library is like an iceberg storing a treasure house of fascinating, historic and valuable stock beneath the surface. ●  Libraries are and continue to be relevant in our communities. ●  Holding collaborative ideation events in inspiring venues encourages inspired thinking.

10% 2% Transport - Bikeranks - CarPark - Loading Bay - Buggies

3% Building Tours 0% Support Need info desk and GLA at North St.

- Orientation spaces POST-IT COMMENTS - Multiple journeys + experences facilitated for users 10% Places to Work

Concept models made by workshop participants using bespoke prototype cards.

Passive Spaces

Digitisation

10% 50% Outside Welcome Informed Engaged Responsive

10%

Innovations

2%

+ Update theatre + Architecturally interesting for photos. - Historic features - Roof garden - Cinema - Dynamic kids areas - Dumb waiters

Concept models made by workshop participants using bespoke prototype cards.

Concept models made by workshop participants using bespoke prototype cards.

10%

6% Information

- Inclusion - Outreach - Welcoming - Civic USER GENERATED - Travel! / Getting there - Marketing - Creative - Commercial - Future generations POST-IT COMMENTS - Flexibility for sustainability

Music Perf.

Info Desk / Counters

Digital Navigation

30%

Exhibitions

[Entrance] - Info desks - Digital signage

25%

25%

+ Garden: Maintained by gardening groups, well-being, relaxing, views, children reading outside

Public - Flexi space / Study Carrels & Music Staff - Offices / Storage / Meeting Rooms

Accessible tech for the public

More entrances - Berkeley St. - North St. - Kent Rd. - Granville St.

Pathways of desire

- Microfiche - Catalogue

Group study space

30%

Corridors, Stairs, Lifts. Active / Flexible Space Routes - Intuitive More quiet/group workspaces

Places To Work Charged talks, evening classes, online events

“I think the Mitchell can and should provide a high quality, access expe- rience to the collections that does not necessarily mean physical access but selective digitisation to the core of that provision; you can provide an expe- rience much more open to loads people to dip into while still providing some physical access to the key items and high- lights in a collection.”

Garden events

Music carrels

Glass lift Display / Exhibition 10% (Including interpertation)

- Library books - Family History Events - Wedding venue (Flexible space) - Group working space (Places to work) - Theatre (Events, cinema space) - Conferences Active Space

“You come in, and it is not really apparent where the library is or what is open. People of- ten look confused, they are looking for a main 25%

Tours

40%

Exhibition space

Key overlap! - Audience focused - Enhancing

- Digital Borrowing USER EXPERIENCE - Accessibility (Lifts + Doors) - Bright + Fun - Glasgow Legacy - Glasgow Literary Heritage - Memories / Stories - Inclusion - Safe - Welcoming - Civic - Communication - Home from home - Identity (International, local, Glaswegian) - Spatial Connections - Showcasing Staff Knowledge USER GENERATED

Meeting rooms / hireable Information 35%

10%

3% Display - Exhibition Space - Community Displays - Display Nooks

Hospitality - Garden + restaurant on rooftop; Special events

5% Conditioned space for fragile collections

30% Public Better children’s area - Bigger (Anderston?)

5% Donations

5%

10% 5% Lift & Escalators - Children Play Inspired Informed

5%

10%

- Casual cafe - General Study / Silent Spaces - Family History & Special Collections - Archives - Theatre - Walkways + Links between floors

Study carrels

Bike storage & Parking

Information

“We are part of Glasgow story - the old building is such an integral part of Glasgow’s history. I think there is a need for a permanent place to tell this.We could bring the older spaces back to life, then they’re the ideal spaces to do it.” 20% Practical Secure Focused Calm

Places To Play

Innovation 15% - Flexible space + Boxes & card machines in each dept. + Bequest info more available.

Maps, Paper or Interactive Education space

Physical Signage Storyboards Internal accessibility

Support 3% - Drop in - 1'2'1

Even t / flexible spaces Terminals with many languages at all entrances

Author / Workshop spaces

Quiet areas

“There must be oppor- tunities for using tech- nology really effectively to bring some of those archives to life and en- gage people in the histo- ry of Glasgow. “

Study space/ desks

- Workshops/classes - Audiences focused

hall and a lot of the rooms off the central Passive Spaces

15%

5%

10%

5% Support - Prayer Room - Disabled access /

Info desk(s)

Catalogue points

Transport Info

Platform for local mak- ers - Bookbinding lab!

Work - Office

20%

Kids area

Garden produce e.g Honey!

corridor are closed and the signage doesn’t help. People are just con- fused.” 10% Places to Play - Stacks - Stirling Room - Reading Nooks - Dwell spaces - Children's area - Makers space - Cafe

Retail

Passive - Study / quiet spaces

Service areas

15% Family/Local History. Heritage Centre (Archives)

Book Shelving / Layout Secure bike store

Storage & Organisation

On or off site storage?

toilets - Lifts

UNKNOWN %

Close the carpark to create storage/ space

10% Staff Comfortable & Enough I.T / Storage

- Lending offer (What) - Display Nooks (What) - Computers (What) - Walk-ways. Links between areas (Where ) POST-IT COMMENTS - Vast differences in people using the library thought about. - Reminds me of the Guggenheim, Bilbao. Also, a brain!

Book stacks

Practical Sustain- able

2% Transport

Better workrooms

Storage (?)

Breakroom / Toilets

Home + Online shop (linked to social media) Prints of photos, collections etc. + Online tours (Free, downloadable or a specialist charged version). + ML collection + stationery supplies (Carpet cross-stitch. vintage Christmas cards etc) + Vending machines for stationary on each floor.

RETAIL + Shop should be visible, always, a free item (Postcard, print, leaflet), more like a bookshop. + Vending machines should be fun, and could be themed.

HOSPITALITY + Casual cafe: Packed lunch space, relaxed, affordable, friendly, view of outside or library activity + Restaurant: Glasgow style? Welcoming but suitable for specific occasions, could be accessed via the glass lift!

Safe pedestrian routes

Coach parking (For travel trade)

Archives

Safe / Welcome Supported / Informed Inspiring

Where storage ends up is critical to the project

Improved signage from city centre

Impact of Clyde Metro

Relaxing F un Creative

USER FOCUSED (With a nod to the staff)

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