Refresh Your Library on a Budget
Public libraries built decades ago, or even generations ago, are often not well suited for the way libraries are used in 2025. Typically, there are too few windows, tall shelves, a lot of brick, and a lack of comfortable seating. When the internet arrived in the 1990s, libraries cobbled together tables and workstations, used extension cords, and tried to make the same old spaces work for new purposes. It worked temporarily, but customers now expect bright buildings with dedicated spaces that provide the programs and services they need in a comfortable, well-maintained environment. There is an ongoing need for community gathering spaces. Customers want a place to conduct virtual meetings or telehealth calls. They also want to know that their tax money is being spent thoughtfully and responsibly. Here are some ideas for how to spruce up your library’s space without spending millions of dollars for a full renovation or building replacement.
Bring in Fresh Eyes
The first step is to bring in someone who isn’t at your location every day to review the functionality and provide their opinion. After a while, it’s easy to overlook features of the building that are outdated or awkward. If something has always been that way, staff may start to forget about it and not even consider a new approach. Are there dead plants in the corner, chairs with holes in the upholstery, or community art projects that have been hanging up too long? Is there any seating that is comfortable and welcoming? Change can be challenging for staff who prefer the routine, but a thorough cleanout and overhaul will give the building a fresh appearance. Start with the “low hanging fruit” that is low cost and sometimes even free.
Brighten Things Up
It seems intuitive that libraries should have good lighting, but many older buildings have antiquated lighting fixtures and structures that don’t allow for the flexibility that newer lighting plans can provide. Consider applying for grants or subsidies to upgrade your lighting. Many utility providers offer rebates or incentives to help property owners upgrade their lighting at a reduced cost. Some providers also offer low- or no-interest payment plans, which may be an option for your agency. LED lighting is more energy efficient and often provides flexibility, such as dimming and remote access. Can furniture or shelving be moved to maximize natural lighting? Customers are drawn to seating areas by bright windows that create cozy reading nooks.
Look for New Display Shelving and Furniture
Displays are a great way to attract readers to a book, but fancy display units can be expensive! Are there items around the branch that could be repurposed for use as displays? An old atlas stand can be repurposed creatively as a craft station and a platform to promote upcoming programs. Stack end and face-out displays are a great way to merchandise items and also make the shelves look full if certain areas are lacking. Windowsills and unused top shelves are great display spaces and add color to the room.
Improve Access to Charging
It’s clear that old buildings often lack the necessary infrastructure to support the electrical needs of modern library customers. In lieu of a complete electrical makeover, which is likely cost-prohibitive, try inexpensive solutions such as charging stations. Study carrels are popular with customers because they create an illusion of privacy. Installing a few new, modern carrels with built-in outlets and charging ports will add to the welcoming atmosphere of the library.
Create More Quiet + Private Spaces
As libraries continue to evolve and provide more community space, there is also an increased need for smaller, private spaces for focused work such as interviews, study sessions, telehealth calls, and small group meetings. Building or moving walls can be cost-prohibitive, but there are a variety of study pods on the market that provide convenient and comfortable solutions. The pods are soundproof, equipped with built-in lighting and electricity, and can be relocated as needed. ADA-compliant models are also available. The pods are glass on at least three sides, creating an illusion of privacy, but customers are still within view of staff. Pods start at approximately $10,000 and vary in size and features, but they are a highly appreciated addition to library spaces.
Brighten Up Dark Walls
Seeking a more affordable way to refresh? A quick coat of paint can refresh a building at minimal expense. If library policies allow, a library staff member with some painting skills could add a pop of color by just painting one wall or a themed, creative mural that resonates with the community or aligns with the library’s mission. Dark brick that is whitewashed transforms the look and makes a room appear bigger and more up-to-date.
Replace Tall Shelving with Lower Stacks
Gone are the days of 8 – to 10-foot stacks that are inaccessible and block sight lines. The look is outdated, and the shelving doesn’t align with the self-service model that most public libraries now embrace. Replacing tall shelves with 5- to 6-foot shelving is an opportunity to clean out the collection and open up the space, making it feel bigger. Shelving can be expensive, but it can also be done in sections. If your library has a Foundation or Friends group, consider asking the community to sponsor stacks to support replacing old, outdated shelving with shelving that is more attractive, modular and updated.
Flooring Matters
If there is one thing that impacts the overall look of a building’s interior, it’s the flooring. Replacing the carpet or installing vinyl tile or LVL flooring is not inexpensive, and it can be done in sections. Heavy foot traffic and spills, especially in the children’s area and the meeting room, can cause the flooring to become stained and worn. Styles and color preferences change over the years and can make a building look outdated as time passes. If only one project can be done in a year, this is the one that has the most dramatic impact.
Spruce Up Outdoor Spaces
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many libraries utilized outdoor spaces for their programs. Is the outdoor programming ongoing in your library? If so, can the space be made friendlier with some inexpensive mulch and benches? Using outdoor areas helps promote programs to those walking or driving by, and there are no worries about loud participants or music.
Customers want to see that their library is up-to-date and well-maintained. Advocating for full-scale renovations and building replacements is crucial to keeping library buildings up-to-date and relevant. However, government budget processes can take a long time, and capital funding can be pushed off as more urgent projects come up. Politics also plays a role, and the decisions are sometimes out of the hands of library leaders. In the meantime, customers will notice the efforts and funds invested in small changes to the libraries and be excited that an effort is being made to make the spaces feel up-to-date and responsive to their needs.
