Library Furniture

Today's libraries are complicated things. In addition to all the traditional library furniture, any library – no matter how large or small – has to meet the needs of the digital age. So the list of library "must haves" is considerably longer than it was in the days of card catalogs and the Dewey decimal system (I think I've totally dated myself with that one).

One library furniture item that hasn't changed is the obvious one – bookcases. No matter how computerized things have become, books are not (yet) obsolete and libraries still need lots of space for them. Double-faced library bookcases are one great way to pack a lot of books into less space. If these are too pricey, then single-faced units can be assembled back-to-back for the same effect. Special literature racks and periodical displays keep magazines and soft-cover books intact and easy to find.

Probably the most ubiquitous library furniture item is the circulation desk. These can be super-simple or highly elaborate, from one computer station with a small desk to a sprawling, circular setup. The important thing is that it should be functional, and that it should be large enough to accommodate however many librarians you have. Oh, and don't forget to have at least one book return. Those can be hard to manage without.

Once the books are squared away, people need a place to sit and actually read them. That's where library chairs and tables come in. While the classic wood library chair never goes out of style, upholstered chairs can add comfort as well as a touch of color. Library tables come in a huge range of shapes, colors, sizes and configurations. Mixing and matching between tables and chairs not only adds depth and texture to your library, it also ensures that you get the most out of your floor plan.

Does your library have a small children's section? If the answer is yes, then you can really have a lot of fun with children's library furniture. This includes big book displays, reading terraces, bean bags, and a whole array of small tables and chairs. Let your imagination go with this; the kids who visit will be more likely to feel good about reading if their library is a fun place to be. Keep it bright and cheerful. Manufacturers like Children's Factory, Wood Designs, Brand New World and Gressco offer a whole range of options that will enhance your school library. Into color-coordination? Check out the Educational Edge line of matching bookcases, tables and chairs.

No school or public library can compete today if they're not optimized for computer use. At the very least, you'll need enough computer access stations for your patrons to be able to look up the books they need without waiting forever on line. Multiple computer carrels enable students and researchers to sit for prolonged periods of time for study and Internet research. At Hertz Furniture, we offer a large selection of library computer solutions, from the standard to the fully customized.

Once you've taken care of all the items your library can't do without, you can look at those that, while not mandatory, do make library life easier and more convenient. Book carts let you transport books easily from the circulation desk to wherever they belong. Some of them are so attractive, they actually add to your library's décor. Newspaper racks and pamphlet holders let you take advantage of open areas and wall space. And, last but not least, don't forget step-stools so that patrons can access high-shelves without making a special request. For stools that visitors will literally get a kick out of, check out the Kik-Stool series.

Hertz Furniture's professional Design Center and financing experts enable us to be there for you every step of the way, from planning your library all the way through to the finishing touches. Whether you're furnishing a new library, renovating an old one or just looking to upgrade, we at Hertz Furniture are committed to making sure that you get exactly what you need, at a price you'll be happy with.