At the Ministry of Imagination, we mix deep knowledge and experience in library and collection policy with programming skills, an understanding of narrative, and the spatial opportunities in buildings.
Programming and collection policy
The collection remains the heart of the library; but the way we deal with it is changing dramatically. The focus is shifting from merely managing to actively working with the collection. Here, the users play a decisive role; they are actively involved in a process of creating meaning.
The meaning of a collection is no longer determined solely by the library or librarian, but by the users themselves! Collecting and programming merge into one participatory process where everyone learns from each other. We explore what this means for your strategy, approach, and organization.
Narrative
Libraries have a unique role in our towns and cities: they're places where real exchanges between different community groups happen. We make this visible in the story a building tells. Such a narrative guides the architectural layout, facilitates creative connections with partners, and serves as a powerful communication tool to the outside world. Internally, it functions as a 'user guide' for the building, helping maintain direction and motivating staff. The inspiration for this story often comes from the rich history or specific location of the building or city, which further highlights the library's local roots.
Architecture
Building or redesigning a library is something we see as a catalyst for innovation. A new way of working requires a different layout of the library building. The library is transforming into a space for learning and reading, for cultural participation and social activities, for labs and co-working spaces and last but not least for a vibrant children's section, where there's plenty of room for kids to develop their creativity. Architecture literally and figuratively creates the space for this.
Creating an innovative library is a complex challenge that requires teamwork, where architects, librarians, and designers collaborate to bring out the best in each other.