UFC 4-740-20
1 May 2006
children's areas within the view of the circulation desk and public services area.
Provide an inviting place for children with furniture, furnishings, and equipment designed
for young children and mounted at the appropriate scale. Provide ample storage for a
wide variety of supplies, games, activities, A/V equipment, and extra shelving. Utilize
materials that are easily cleaned and maintained. Utilize moisture-proof materials,
where possible. Design heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) ductwork to
maintain acoustical separation from the rest of the library.
4-5.2
Figure: Children's Areas Functional Relationships
4-5.3
General Collections for Children
Children's book stacks should be no more than 1200 mm (4' feet) high to provide
children access to books and surveillance of the space. Locate book stacks around the
children's designated main reading and activity areas. Provide some lounge type
seating in a casual, child friendly environment.
4-5.4
Computer Areas for Children
Provide personal computers with children's interest programs, games, and Internet
access in a dedicated area within the overall children's area. Durable equipment, like
headphones, monitors, and furniture made specifically for children, should be provided.
Include access accommodations to networked services like printers and scanners
located in the information services area. Consider the needs of adults assisting children
at the computer stations and provide some adult seating accommodations. Provide
data ports and electrical outlets for laptops that may be utilized by adults. Include a
dedicated ILS station in the children's area to allow children and adults the ability to
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