DESIGNING LIBRARIES
Emily Peasgood Studio is now refining these co-created concepts into a final design, which will continue to be shaped by feedback from the steering group at key development stag- es. Once approved, Emily will work with local artist Emily Simpson to run a workshop to develop a Manifesto for an Inclusive Library. This will result in a piece of visual art woven into the fabric of the building, quite literally, with elements embedded into window overlays and flooring, visu- ally narrating the values and co-creation journey behind the project.
Can physical redesign drive deeper systemic and infrastruc- tural change? Emily is confident in her approach. “This is a space for everyone, informed by the social model of disability,” she explains. “It’s also a matter of balance. What one person needs can sometimes conflict with another’s needs, so I aim to create a space where everyone can find a place within the library.” Her ambition extends beyond accessibility to something more magical. “I don’t want to create something that looks like other libraries. I want it to be well-designed, which is why I’m working with Ben Allen, but also beautiful and mag- ical. A place where you want to be. I aim to create Haydock’s living room.” Emily has assembled a talented team to help bring the vision to life. Public artist Mooch brings deep experience in community engagement and placemaking; local artist Catherine Jackman will craft bespoke signage for the space; Laura Smith, who manages the MediCinema at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, contributes insight into inclusive environments; accessibility specialist David Cleary lends his expertise; and library design expert Ayub Khan completes the group. By exploring the five senses and embedding them holis- tically throughout the design, rather than isolating them in a single ‘sensory zone’, this redesign has the potential to redefine what a library can be. As a case study, Haydock could serve as a model for future inclusive, community-driven cultural spaces.
Some key considerations to consider to support children with SEND
Key areas of library support School software providers Softlink Education identify five key areas of support for children with special needs – and these are equally applicable in the library setting:
l Assistive technology – devices like screen readers, text-to-speech software and braille displays
The Listening Desk. Photo © Emily Peasgood To continue the dialogue, a Listening Desk has been installed
in the library alongside a custom Haydock jigsaw puzzle to continue the conversation, and a temporary sensory room has been set up. These small innovations will remain in place over the coming months to observe how visitors engage with them, offering valuable insights ahead of the first design pre- sentation in September. If the Listening Desk is well-received, further workshops will be held to co-design its content. The desk features a directional speaker that doesn’t bleed into the more expansive space, and the planned content will include accessible educational games designed for users of all ages and abilities.
A radical space The new Haydock Library will radically shift from its current, more conventional iteration. While the existing space is welcom- ing, it doesn’t fully engage the breadth of the local community. In an era of library closures and stretched resources, such rein- vention is not just refreshing, it’s necessary. The transformation also raises important questions about the future of libraries:
12 INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL
l Digital content – ebooks, audio books and accessible formats, such as dyslexia-friendly fonts
l Sensory tools – resources like fidget toys, weighted lap pads and quiet areas
l Accessible facilities – adaptive furniture, ramps and adjustable lighting
l Specialised learning materials – resources such as books, games and multimedia specifically designed for students with cognitive disabilities
Design, distraction and dangers Design plays a big part in helping libraries to offer greater accessibility to physically disabled children – with features like wheelchair ramps, reachable door entry systems, dis- abled toilets, shelving heights, hearing loops and Braille. Design and décor can help children with other disabilities to
feel more comfortable in the library – soft colour schemes, natural materials and adjustable lighting creating quieter, calmer spaces. Furniture and fittings designed to prevent children hurting themselves – such as rounded corners and no sharp edges – are advisable for all.
Autumn 2025
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