On these pages:
Identifying a suitable space is one of the biggest challenges of setting up a family room. Academic libraries have to meet the needs of many different users, all of whom benefit from bespoke spaces, so finding the right room for users to work with children is important.
Identifying a suitable space
There are a number of things to consider when identifying a suitable space for a family room. We have outlined some considerations regarding the space and size below.
Space
Identifying a suitable space is one of the biggest challenges of setting up a family room. Academic libraries have to meet the needs of many different users, all of whom benefit from bespoke spaces, so finding the right room for users to work with children is important.
Size
A family room does not need to be particularly large. A small, secure space can be more beneficial than a large one where users' children can run around or hide. Existing family rooms across the sector vary, with the key factor being space availability.
Child friendly furniture
A child may be spending a long period of time in the room, so child-sized chairs and a desk or table are essential.
Adult furniture
A family room is not a creche or a playroom, and a parent or carer needs the standard library facilities to be able to study effectively. In addition to what is required for any children using the space, an appropriate desk, computer, and chair are equally important.
Breastfeeding
Consider the suitability of the furniture in the room for breastfeeding. Does the chair have arms that would make positioning the baby difficult or uncomfortable? Is there space to add an additional comfortable chair? Can the space be rendered more private (closable curtains or a privacy screen)?
Changing supplies
While parents will bring their own supplies, a reserve of common items like nappies, sanitary wipes, and nappy bags is recommended. These can be kept at a desk to avoid abuse if appropriate.
Artwork
As with any child-friendly space, artwork on the walls is both more stimulating for the child and makes it seem friendlier and more approachable. There are different routes to achieving this depending on your budget. Wall stencils are common, but even printouts of characters from books and cartoons are sufficient. Educational wall charts are another good alternative, especially for users with older children.
Books
It is a library, so there should be some books for children. This is a great activity that can keep children occupied quietly for periods, particularly if they are books the child does not have at home. Users or staff may donate books, but these can also be sourced very inexpensively from charity shops. Board books are ideal for younger children as they are durable and less likely to need repairs, whereas pop-up books are almost certainly going to get damaged.
Toys or games
Some additional activities are recommended to help keep children occupied – keeping the child happy and making it easier for the parent or carer to concentrate. Durable items like wooden toys, jigsaws, and plastic activity sets are recommended. If you are adding crayons or drawing materials, consider the likelihood of the space being drawn on.
Facilities and lighting
Considering facilities in the room and nearby can enhance user experience.
Toilet Facilities
An ideal family room is located close to a baby change, if one is available. If one is not available, then close proximity to a toilet with a bin is the next best thing. If a baby requires changing, most parents will bring a changing mat of some kind, but disposal of waste and handwashing facilities are essential.
Lighting
Controllable light levels can be highly beneficial. Like any workspace, well-lit is both better for studying and more pleasant, but the ability to dim light levels (including shutting out natural light) will often help young babies get to sleep.
Access and security
Access
Make sure the room is accessible by a pram (no tight corridors, corners, or stairs). If this is not available, a secure area for pram storage is required.
Security
A closed-off space is essential for a family room, both for the privacy of those working within it and for the peace of those studying nearby. A secure, manageable space is also easier to ensure it meets health and safety requirements.
