This library formula has been developed by SVT Branding & Design Group, on the instructions of and in close cooperation with Biblionet Groningen. The formula is based on principles from retail and marketing. The official name is The Ideal Library, but this formula is now better known as Blackbox.
Bieb Systems has already fitted out multiple libraries with Blackbox.
Entice and inspire
The ideal library is customer focussed and manages to entice and inspire its customers . The dark primary colour is combined with striking coloured signage and clear communication. The bookcases and presentation tables are designed so that the range is better presented and with more flexibility. Books for example, are presented frontally. Customers immediately see the cover and are then more likely to be tempted to grab a book off the shelf.
More visitors
The retail concept is an excellent way of attracting new customers to your library. Libraries that change to a retail lay-out see their visitor numbers rise by an average of 20%! Existing customers also usually experience the new arrangement very positively.
Integrated and modular
The Blackbox formula provides an integrated concept for the design of your library. The formula works with thematic worlds and functional modules and is available for different types of libraries (village, town, district/Vinex district and service point).
Thematic worlds
There are six themed worlds, three for adults (Exciting and Active, Love and Life, and Literature and Culture) and three for young people (0-8 years, 8-12 years and 12+).
Functional modules
The modules are functional clusters. Four of these are always applied: Market, Living, Kids and Reception and service. Upon entering for instance, the visitor comes directly to the Market module. This consists of presentation tables where temporary, periodically changing campaigns and themes are presented.
In addition to the four permanent ones, there are five optional modules: Reading café, Stage, Youth, Looking and listening and Searching and making. You choose the desired module for your library dependent on the available physical (and financial) space.
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