The internal layout of the new Central Library provides 14 different zones across two floors for learning, knowledge exchange, communication and inspiration.
The new Central Library is located on two floors in the KAP 1 building near Düsseldorf main station. Visitors enter the library via lifts from the glass foyer, ascending to the large public spaces catering for the numerous varying wants and needs of the users of a modern library. These needs are not simply different, but often conflicting – some require a place for communication and interaction, others a quiet place for concentrated work and study.
Public participation was therefore an important factor in the planning process – through workshops with various user groups a dynamic library concept was developed, aiming to be fair to all and establishing the Central Library as a non-commercial public space. Students, educators, inquisitive, inspiration- and experience-oriented, culture- and social-oriented people from all ages, genders, cultural and social backgrounds were given the opportunity to participate, structurally as well as functionally.
