Using a library building consultant

Abstract

The role of library consultants in the planning and design of a library building and in its preparations is discussed. The various tasks a consultant can perform are the initiation and establishing of the planning process, creating a needs assessment study, planning team deliberation, site evaluation, specifications funding, design and construction supervision. Types of consultancy can be either full consultancy or advisory role. Questions of consultant's qualifications, selection, hiring and paying are also treated. A special point in consultancy is the ethics of the consultant. Finally, the question of when to hire a library building consultant is discussed.