USER ACTIVITY-BASED DESIGN CRITERIA FOR CONTEMPORARY LIBRARIES

Abstract

Public libraries have experienced significant transformation from information repositories into contemporary public spaces that accommodate diverse user activities. In addition to reading, libraries are increasingly used for studying, working, collaborative discussions, community events, and informal social interaction. However, previous studies have primarily focused on evaluating spatial quality, user satisfaction, or the transformation of library functions, while limited attention has been given to developing practical architectural design criteria based on actual user activities. Therefore, this study aims to formulate design criteria for contemporary libraries based on user activities through a case study of Jakarta Public Library at Taman Ismail Marzuki. This research employed a descriptive qualitative approach using a case study method. Data were collected through field observations, documentation, semi-structured interviews with library managers and users, and questionnaires distributed to fifty respondents. The collected data were analyzed by identifying the relationship between spatial functions and user activities, followed by a synthesis process to formulate design criteria. The findings indicate that the library has evolved beyond its traditional role as a reading facility into a multifunctional public space supporting learning, working, collaboration, recreation, and community engagement. Based on these findings, five design criteria were formulated, including communal reading areas, coworking spaces, discussion rooms, reading lounges, and flexible event spaces. These criteria provide practical guidance for developing contemporary public libraries that are more adaptive, flexible, user-oriented, and capable of responding to evolving patterns of community activities.