Lo spazio del leggere, ovvero i nuovi approdi della lettura in biblioteca

Abstract

The article, based on an analysis of some recent library projects, detects their characteristic of open, dynamic and inclusive space, but also often impersonal environment that stands to lose an appearance with well-defined features and purposes. The intent of this quick overview of how is designed today the space of the “Library of the 21st century” is to emphasize that among the parameters of architectural design is often overlooked a key element: the reading, indeed, the practice of reading. And is particularly serious to note this lack in a situation of “reading emergency” as one that Italy is going through. In order to make reading at the center of the rethinking of the spaces of the library, the author analyzes the new structures of reading and the situations in which it can be exercised. From individual immersive reading to Reading Groups and to the many forms of collective readings in the library. In conclusion it is suggested that also the entrance space of the library, following the directions of the tripartite library theorized by Emunds in the70s, is to associate with the concept of the library as a space of reading.