There is no substitute for experiencing a library in person. Visiting a library, walking through its spaces, and speaking directly with librarians about their design process, service models, and spatial strategies provides insights that cannot be gained through presentations alone. Seeing how ideas are translated into built environments allows participants to better understand what works—and why. This tour aligns closely with current library trends, including the evolution of libraries as community-centered spaces, the shift toward inclusive and flexible design, the integration of technology, and the transformation of traditional service models. As libraries continue to redefine their role—serving as cultural hubs, learning environments, and civic anchors—understanding how design supports these missions is essential. By exploring libraries at different stages—historic renovation, new construction, award-winning projects, and active construction—participants will gain a comprehensive perspective on how libraries are adapting to meet contemporary community needs.
Itinerary 8:00–8:15 AM Meet tour bus in front of the conference hotel (The Galt House Hotel, 140 N. Fourth St., Louisville, KY 40202)
8:15–8:45 AM (3.9 m 13 minutes) Depart hotel to Parkland Library (2743 Virginia Ave, Louisville, KY 40211)
8:45 –9:45 AM Tour Parkland Library
9:45 – 10:05 (3.3 m 11 minutes) Depart Parkland Library to Ekstrom Library (2215 S 3rd St, Louisville)
10:05 10:30 Coffe break @ Ekstrom
10:30 11:45 Tour Ekstrom Library with Dean Robert
11:45–12:15 (13.7 m 20 minutes) Depart Central Ekstrom Library to Northeast Library (15 Bellevoir Cir, Louisville, KY 40223)
12:15–1:00 PM Lunch at Northeast Library
1:00 – 2:00 Tour of Northeast Library
2:00–2:30 PM (13.9 m 22 minutes) Depart Northeast Library to Central (301 York St, Louisville, KY 40203)
2:30-3:45 PM Tour Central
3:45–4:00 PM (1.2 m 2 minute) Return to conference hotel
Libraries are increasingly expected to serve as dynamic, engaging environments that support learning, creativity, and social connection for children and teens. This session explores how intentional design choices can transform youth spaces from passive service areas into active, interactive environments that respond to evolving community needs. Examples will be shared from recently renovated and newly constructed public library spaces across multiple systems, including several award-winning projects, this presentation will highlight practical design strategies that support play, exploration, collaboration, and teen engagement. Attendees will examine how elements such as flexible layouts, interactive features, embedded technology, sensory considerations, and age-appropriate zoning can foster meaningful experiences while remaining adaptable over time. An example of a re-design of an existing children’s space at a Main Library will be shared that shows a correlation between the new design and an increase in user visits and circulation. The session will also address how libraries can balance creativity with operational realities such as durability, supervision, inclusivity, and budget constraints. Participants will leave with concrete examples, guiding principles, and a framework for evaluating or reimagining their own children’s and teen spaces, whether planning a major renovation or making incremental improvements within existing footprints.
Wendy Tressler serves as Planning and Strategy Officer at Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) and is a member of its Executive Leadership Team. Since joining CML in 2001 as the library’s Training and Development Manager, Wendy has held a variety of leadership roles, overseeing a... Read More →
