Tisch Library

Throughout our design process we followed the "double diamond" framework, which alternates between divergent thinking (expanding options and exploring possibilities) and convergent thinking (narrowing down and making decisions) at each stage.

We conducted several interviews with various users of Tisch Library, including employees, students who frequently use Tisch as study space, and students who avoid the space altogether. This allowed us to collect a variety of information, perspectives, and ideas on what was or wasn’t working well about the current design.

After gathering insights from our user interviews, our team began “green light thinking,” or generating as many redesign ideas as possible without evaluating whether they’re feasible or viable. This encouraged creativity and team cohesion before we began narrowing down the idea pool.

After our initial round of green light thinking, we filtered out repeated or similar ideas and categorized what the main focuses of our redesign would be: atmosphere, technology, mapping/layout, and amenities.

Through our interviews, we discovered that the existing layout of Tisch Library poses issues due to a confusing floor numbering system. Notably, the placement of the main entrance and exit on the second floor is unintuitive, leading individuals to become disoriented on the first floor while searching for the exit.

Our redesign not only changed the labeling of the second floor to “main”, but it also created an explicitly defined noise level system, where noise and collaboration increase as you go upstairs. This would alleviate the frustration students face at the mismatch in noise levels on the main floor, and would make use of underutilized space on other floors.

We also discovered several issues that the main floor of Tisch Library currently faces, including a shortage of bathroom facilities, a complex and unclear mapping system, limited visibility due to obstructions like corners and book stacks, and an outdated aesthetic that many find is not conducive to studying.

In our revised plan, we suggest integrating bookshelves and study spaces on the main floor, creating an immersive academic environment where students are surrounded by books to enhance the overall atmosphere. We also recommend removing the reading room and, in its place, introducing additional restroom facilities and a “coffee shop” style lounge.

This slide demonstrates the seamless integration of books into study spaces. Our proposal also includes the implementation of a color-coding system for different shelves and sections throughout the library. This not only adds an element of aesthetic appeal but also enhances the practicality of the space by simplifying navigation, making it easier for library-goers to locate specific areas and collaborate with friends or colleagues.

Further enhancements to the main floor of the library include the introduction of an interactive map that highlights currently overlooked services such as Tufts bike checkout, technology help desk, and free camera and equipment rentals. We would reimagine the interior design, incorporating elements like natural light and plants. Soundproof pods would also be added, addressing the issue of privacy and noise levels currently affecting study rooms.

On the upper floor, which encourages collaboration, we included the addition of a study break room. This space would provide students with an opportunity to socialize and unwind, ultimately boosting their productivity and enabling them to accomplish more during their study sessions.

We would also reimagine the current classroom space to be more versatile and adaptable. This would involve designing the area in a way that allows for easy rearrangement to accommodate the diverse needs of various classes or clubs, promoting flexibility and maximizing the utility of the space.

Lastly, we would establish clear and prominently displayed rules for the silent study floors. This step aims to reduce ambiguity and potential sources of frustration among users by providing explicit guidelines for behavior and noise levels in these areas.