As communities demand greater flexibility, many public libraries face the challenge of expanding access while navigating stagnant budgets and staffing shortages. This session explores the emerging "open library" model, which leverages specialized facility design and integrated technology to support unstaffed hours for extended service to patrons. Through the lens of recent case studies across the US, including rural and urban branches, we will examine how specific architectural interventions and hardware solutions allow libraries to increase open hours. The discussion will cover the essential technical infrastructure required, such as automated building controls, integrated security systems, and self-service kiosks. We will also address the "human" side of the transition: safety protocols, user agreements, and communication strategies that ensure staff and community buy-in. Attendees will walk away with a framework to evaluate their own facilities for "open access" suitability and the tools to frame this model as a value-added service for their community.
