A library for Hollins College, Virginia

As a result of the work presented in this thesis, important factors in the design of a new library for Hollins can be noted. As stated in the original program, the primary criteria for the design of the building must be service to the readers. Of first importance in effectuating this aim is the careful study of the functional relationships of the various technical library operations. This must be kept in mind to provide for the efficient function of the staff; hence, the maximum service to the reader. However, the continuance of that service requires that the building be designed for maximum flexibility in order to meet the changing needs of an expanding college.

The flexibility of the library will depend largely upon the integration of structure, mechanical equipment, and materials used. This is largely an engineering problem, involving considerations of economy. A successful library for Hollins can result only from the coordination of the recommendations of specialists in these fields with the requirements of the planning and the design of the building. Successful coordination of all the elements mentioned herein will result in an efficient, quiet, and pleasant “laboratory” for the use of an expanded book collection by the students and faculty of Hollins College.