Inclusive Planning Process for Space and Services at Kyoto University Library

Abstract

This paper introduces the inclusive planning process for space and services at the Kyoto University Library since 2013. Kyoto University Library is the main library within the Kyoto University Library Network, which consists of over 50 libraries around the campus. In 2013, the Kyoto University Library conducted a project to design the first “Learning Commons” space on campus with various stakeholders, including librarians, faculty members, and students in a collaboration across different backgrounds. The project culminated in the award winning1 design of the “Learning Commons” in Kyoto University Library. The concept of “Learning Commons” was first introduced to Japanese academic libraries in 2006 (加藤・小山2012：3). However, in case of Kyoto University, it was the first “Learning Commons” on campus, therefore, needed to start from the long discussion of defining the characteristics of the space itself. The design process was highly inclusive of all stakeholders. Since then, Kyoto University Library has been undertaking an inclusive planning process for both space and services through the corroborative work among librarians, faculty members and students. From the experience of Kyoto University Library, one can say that the inclusive process is the key when designing the inclusive space and services.