Leading the way in public and school library design

Funding for libraries can be a difficult topic to navigate. With budget cuts happening in every sector, it is more important than ever that we keep our libraries alive.

At FG Library & Learning, we work with libraries in various sectors all over the UK. It is part of our mission to ensure everyone has access to a comfortable, safe space where they can access learning materials.

We understand the difficulties libraries are facing, which is why we are sharing the list of potential sources of library funding.

Access the list of potential sources of funding for libraries here.

Where to Look for Funding for Libraries

As with all funding, there are different types available. We would recommend doing you research with any funding provider before contacting them and make sure you don’t share any personal information.

• Local charity grants – these are perfect for smaller libraries. There could be a local charity that specialises in helping community spaces. This is always a good place to start.
• Nationwide Charities – Charities, including the National Lottery or art foundations, will look for community projects to support.
• Trusts and Foundations – again, you might be better off starting with local trusts as they will be more likely to support a local community project. However, there are several trusts and foundations that have given grants to libraries.
• European Charities, Trusts and Foundations – if you are struggling with local or nationwide sources then you could look into European charities.
• Online Sources – there are also a range of charities that operate online only – be prepared to reach out via email and online communication.  

Advice for Securing Funding for Your Library

Once you have found some sources that you would like to contact, you need to be able to present your library and your requirement for funding in the right way. Most charities and trusts will have an online or physical application form for you to fill in. Here are some tips and advice for securing the funding you need:

• Read the form thoroughly – before beginning to fill out the form, we’d advise you to read it from start to finish and think about which information would be best suited for each section. the applications may vary in length so making sure you present your case thoroughly to each source is important.
• Answer all the questions – leave no stone unturned and leave no question unanswered. Show the providers how much your library requires funding with all the opportunities you have.
• Include all relevant and requested information – if they ask for extra information then send it along with your application. If they ask for references then make sure they are included. However, don’t go overboard – don’t send information that they haven’t asked for or more references than they have specified.
• Balance your books – there is a good chance they will want to see your finances to make sure your income and expenditure are balanced. If this means enlisting the help of an accountant, then reach out to one. It is very important to provide as much accurate information as you can at this stage.
• Take note of deadlines – If there is a deadline then make sure that you are sending your application well in advance. There will be several other projects sending applications – late applicants will likely be dismissed before they are even read.

FG Library & Learning

At FG Library & Learning, we take library spaces seriously. From design, layout, furniture etc, we have everything you need to transform your library space.

For more information about what we can offer – contact us today.

As the new year begins, it’s time to think about and plan your library displays and décor for the coming months.

At FG Library & Learning, we provide book displays, shelving and other library furniture that can help organise your space and showcase your books and literature according to your chosen theme.

Switch Up Your Library Book Displays

Reading is such an important skill and hobby for all ages. Whether you’re looking at library book, display ideas for a public library or a library in an educational facility, altering your displays and décor throughout the year can help to encourage reading.

Creating a themed book display could be extravagant and involve decorations throughout the library. Or, for something less invasive, you could have a dedicated area for your theme. You could use some of our acrylic book displays to showcase the books that fit your theme.

We’ve put together some library book display and theming ideas month by month to help you keep your library looking fresh and interesting for all of your users.

Library Book Display Ideas and Themes Month by Month

Here are some of our top library book display ideas that fit with the yearly celebrations and themes. Changing your library design monthly can be a lot to keep on top of, so we’d suggested choosing your favourites and focusing on these.

January: Fresh Starts and Cosy Winter Reads

January brings the celebrations of the new year but with the dark nights and the cold weather still very much in full swing, a wintery library theme will work wonders. Book themes could include:

• New Year, New Reads – Books about self-improvement, mindfulness, or trying something new
• Winter Warmers – Cosy mysteries, heartwarming stories, or books set in wintry locations
• Beating the January Blues – Uplifting, humorous, or feel-good reads

February: Love, LGBTQ+ History, and Half-Term

February brings us valentines day, the first half term holiday of the new year and the UK LGBTQ+ History month. This is a great opportunity to encourage library users to educate themselves in these themes and read something new.

• Love – Romance novels, heartwarming reads, or friendship stories
• LGBTQ+ History – Highlight LGBTQ+ authors, history, and stories (incorporating some rainbows into your décor would also be very on-trend here)
• Keep the Kids Busy – Half-term activities, crafts, or children’s stories.

March: Spring, World Book Day, and Women’s History

As the first signs of spring begin to appear, the world becomes a brighter and lighter place. You can reflect this in your library book displays.

• Spring Into Reading – Books on gardening, nature, or fresh starts
• Women’s Stories, Women’s Voices – Celebrating female authors and characters for Women’s History Month
• World Book Day Favourites – Spotlighting classics, bestsellers, or themed books for children and adults

April: Easter, Poetry, and Climate Awareness

With Easter on the horizon and children off school again, you can expect a public library to become busier during April. Why not encourage the children to read for enjoyment with one of these library book display ideas this month;

• Egg-cellent Reads for Easter – Children’s books, cosy mysteries, or stories about renewal and hope
• Poetic Pages – Celebrate UK poets for National Poetry Month
• Earth Day Reads – Books on climate change, nature writing, and sustainability

May: Mental Health, Local History, and Outdoor Adventures

May brings us several national themes to celebrate, which can be incorporated into your library book displays. Reading is so good for mental health, it’s important you celebrate

Mental Health Month within your library.

• Mindful May – Books on mental health, mindfulness, and self-care for Mental Health Awareness Month
• Celebrating Local Voices – Highlight books by authors from your region or books set in the UK
• Adventures in the Great Outdoors – Hiking, walking, and adventure stories

June: Pride, Summer Reads, and Fatherhood

Within June, we have the first hints of summer, the beginning of festival season and summer holidays looming. Now is the time to think about your summer display and how on theme you want to go with it.

• Summer Escapes – Books set in coastal UK towns, or light summer reading
• Proud Pages – Celebrating Pride Month with LGBTQ+ stories and authors
• Dad’s Bookshelf – Father’s Day picks: biographies, thrillers, and DIY

July: Festivals, Nature, and Adventure

As festivals pick up and the hot weather (hopefully) is in full swing, its another great time for books and new reads. Reading on holiday is a talked about topic within the UK so why not use this as one of your library book display ideas?

• Holiday Reads – books that are perfect for reading on the beach or on a plane.
• Festival Fever – Books on music, Glastonbury, or other UK festivals
• Celebrate the Outdoors – Nature writing, wildlife, and UK countryside adventures

August: Summer Holiday Activities and Bank Holiday Specials

With the long summer holidays still mostly stretched before us, now is the right time to gear your library towards the children. Library reading challenges are great, and they are now available for all ages.

• Summer Fun for Kids – Activity books, adventure stories, and kids’ classics
• Summer Reading Challenge – Your Library users will challenge themselves to read a certain amount of books during the summer holidays.
• Bank Holiday Special – Encourage taking advantage of the calm before the storm of the new term.

September: Autumn and Back to School

As the darker nights draw in, you can embrace autumnal-themed books and kick off your back-to-school reading material.

• Back to School – Resources for children of all ages
• Cosy Up With Crime – Highlight UK crime novels for the start of darker evenings
• Autumn Adventures – Books set in autumn or stories of change and transformation

October: Spooky Season and Black History Month

Halloween seems to be growing year-on-year so why not incorporate this into your library book displays. With horror fiction for teens and adults and friendly skeleton and pumpkin stories for the younger audiences.

• Spine-Chilling Reads – Ghost stories, thrillers, and gothic fiction
• Black History Month in the UK – Books by Black British authors and historical stories
• Witching You a Happy Halloween – Witchcraft, magic, and fantasy reads

November: Bonfires, Remembrance, and Cosy Reads

Remembrance day brings themes of fictional and non-fictional stories about the war. Whilst bonfire night gives hints of Christmas and romantic fictional stories.

• Remember, Remember the 5th of November – Historical fiction or tales of rebellion
• Books to Remember – Reflective reads for Remembrance Day
• Cosy Up With a Cup of Tea -Heartwarming stories, classics, and books set in the UK countryside

December: Winter Warmth and Festive Joy

Of course – the most obvious theme for December is Christmas!

• Twelve Books of Christmas – Christmas-themed books, from Charles Dickens to contemporary tales
• Winter Wonderland – Books set in snowy locations or about winter adventures
• The Best of the Year – Staff picks, award-winners, and most-borrowed titles of the year

Book Displays from FG Library & Learning

At FG Library & Learning, we can provide any furniture or other elements you may require for your library displays. Contact our team today for more information or to discuss your library.

At FG Library & Learning are featured on the supplier list of ESPO’s framework for Design and Refurbishment for Libraries, Learning Resource Centres and Other Indoor Public Spaces (695).

Being awarded a position on this ESPO framework means that prospective clients looking for library design services or furniture manufacturers can choose us as their supplier.

The ESPO Framework Tendering Process

To be awarded a position on the ESPO framework, FG Library & Learning underwent a rigorous competitor and tendering process. This process assessed our track record of working in libraries and public spaces and the quality of the work we have produced in the past. It also considered the quality of the materials we use in our manufacturing process and whether the relevant standards are being met.

Further requirements also include at least a five-year guarantee on products, and, as a supplier, we must have the expertise to advise you on what furniture will work best for you. This is an area where we excel. With our years of experience, we can provide solutions that look good in your space and are functional for your library visitors.

Benefits of Using an ESPO Framework Supplier

Being awarded a position on this ESPO framework has several benefits for us, including access to new exciting clients and becoming a recognised supplier in the sector. There are also several benefits for our clients: ESPO’s frameworks are compliant with UK procurement legislation – ESPO has carried out the assessments, so if you’re using FG Library & Learning for the first time, you don’t have to complete a full procurement process.

• The procurement process to become an ESPO supplier also checked our financial stability, previous history, industry experience, and technical and professional ability. So, you can rest assured that you can trust us.
• Although you are guaranteed to work with an ESPO supplier, your company will not incur additional charges.
• We comply with pre-agreed terms & conditions to minimise your worry and stress.
• Our CSR was also assessed to become a member of the framework, which means we can support you in achieving your CSR goals.

Work With FG Library & Learning

If you are looking for an ESPO library design supplier, contact our team today. In addition to our library design service, we provide all the furniture for your space. We have our own manufacturing facilities, so we can offer bespoke elements as well as our standard range.

Contact our team today to discuss your library – no matter what sector you operate in.

In an age where technology is everywhere, encouraging reading and an interest in physical books is more of a challenge than ever.  

At FG Library & Learning, we design and fit libraries for all different situations. From school libraries to public libraries, universities, book nooks and everything in between, we have the knowledge and experience to provide the best solution every time.

When it comes to traditional libraries, you may have a space with various rooms and be looking for library room ideas.

Utilising your space and creating different library room ideas can be great way to encourage readers of all ages to use the library and enjoy their time there.

Contact our team today if you are looking for ways to create inspirational spaces and want to talk about how FG Library and Learning can help.

5 Library Room Ideas to Encourage and Inspire Reading

At FG Library & Learning, we can provide any aspect of library furniture, acoustic solutions, shelving, seating and more. You just need to provide the books!

Some of our most popular library room ideas that we have designed and created over the years are:

1. Children’s Room

Children are the future, and encouraging them to read, learn, and enjoy literature is one of the most important aspects of society. For a children’s room in a library, we would recommend our colourful shelving solutions and bright and fun books to encourage the children to select reading material. We also have a wide range of fun seating options and play equipment to make the library a fun place for them to be.

Having a separate children’s library room also gives them a dedicated area where they don’t have to be too quiet, a place that is theirs to enjoy how they would like to.  

2. Quiet Study Room

Another good library room idea is a quiet study room. This can be used by teenagers, young adults, and mature students to study within the library facility.

Within this library room, we suggest some study desks, plenty of power outlets, comfy but functional seating, and sleek book shelving for a variety of books.

Keeping the study room separate within your library provides a quiet area for those who want to use the library space for concentration.

3. Meeting Room for Hire

If your library is situated in a busy community, a meeting room is a great addition. If you have space to offer a separate room for this, you can use it as an asset for your library, as it will draw in local groups and committees.

The furniture in a meeting room would largely consist of a conference table and some functional but aesthetically pleasing seating.

4. Function Room for Activities

Again, this makes a great library room if you have the space and capacity to include it. Within town and village communities, function rooms to hire are always in short supply. What better way to get people through the doors of your library than to offer a space for a variety of activities? You could plan the activities as part of the library offering, such as reading sessions, children’s rhyme time or games. You could also hire your space for birthday parties, school functions, team-building workshops, exercise classes and more.

Furniture in rooms like this will be sparse, but you may want to invest in stackable seating that can be easily added to the room for activities.

5. Cosy Book Nook Room  

You can really have fun with a cosy book nook room. Make it really comfy and encourage children and adults of all ages to get lost in a book. Using bean bags, comfy seating and cosy colour schemes can help set the mood.

In a library room like this, we can also provide acoustic solutions to keep the noise to a minimum and add extra colour where required.

Library Design Ideas from FG Library & Learning

If you are embarking on a new library design project and would like some help, advice then the team at FG Library & Learning are here for you.

All of the elements you see on our website are manufactured either within our warehouses or by one of our partners. We pride ourselves on the high-quality service and products we provide to our clients.

Contact us today to see how we can work together to encourage and inspire reading through the library room ideas and beyond.

At FG Library and Learning, we specialise in library furniture and design for any type of library across the UK. One of the types of libraries we can design and fit out is prison libraries.

Prison libraries are one of the more niche areas we work in. People are often interested in their design features and why they are important for the prison community. In this insight, we will discuss everything there is to know about prison libraries.

If you work in a prison and are looking for a partner to help with your library design and furniture supply, contact us today.

Prison Library Elements

The elements in prison libraries are like any library

Shelving – Library shelving is an important part of any library as it provides space for books and literature. At FG Library and Learning, we offer various types of library shelving. so whatever the shape, size or design of your prison library, we can provide shelving that will fit the bill.

Workstations – Most prison libraries require some form of workstations. These could be for private study or group learning activities. Our range of desks and working pods are great for open sessions or private meetings.

Seating – Seating is another important element in libraries, including prison libraries. Our range includes both desk seating and comfy seating. There is often less requirement for comfy seating in prison libraries.

Why are Prison Libraries Important?

It’s no secret that prison libraries play a critical role in rehabilitating and educating incarcerated individuals. They can provide a valuable resource for those who want to better themselves and focus on a positive outcome of their time in prison.

Here are our top 5 reasons for their importance:

1. Educational Opportunities for Inmates

Prison libraries offer access to educational materials, which provide a great opportunity for inmates to pursue education. When looking at statistics, many people who find themselves in prison have low levels of education. Prison libraries provide opportunities to improve their skills when filled with books and resources. Education is one of the most effective tools for reducing recidivism rates, as it equips inmates with the knowledge and skills needed for a productive life after release.

2. Improve Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

Being in prison can take a significant toll on an individual’s mental health, which can often lead to depression. Through the availability of fiction and educational texts, prison libraries can provide an escape from the harsh reality of being an inmate. They can provide a mental break from the repetitive and often difficult environment of prison life.

3. Reduce Re-Offending

It is known that prisoners who engage in education and reading during their sentence are less likely to re-offend upon release. This is because the education they gain gives them greater opportunities in the outside world. Studies consistently show that access to education, including through prison libraries, leads to lower recidivism rates. This ultimately benefits the individuals and society overall.

4. Providing a Sense of Purpose

Prison libraries empower inmates by giving them access to knowledge, providing a sense of purpose beyond the prison walls. This positive and constructive way to spend time can mitigate feelings of hopelessness or frustration.

5. Supporting Legal and Self-advocacy Efforts

Many prison libraries also provide inmates with access to legal resources. This enables them to better understand their rights, case details, or appeal processes where applicable. Inmates with access to law books and legal reference materials are more capable of navigating the legal system, self-advocating, and working towards justice.

Prison Library by FG Library and Learning

At FG Library and Learning, we have the in-house capacity to design prison libraries to your specifications. We can then use our own furniture and shelving to completely fit out your library from top to bottom.  

Getting involved in prison library projects is one of our more niche areas, but it does provide us with a huge sense of self-worth and pride. Libraries are such an important part of any community, and providing people with opportunities for education and growth can be completely unmatched.

For more information on prison libraries as well as furniture and design elements – contact our team today.

At FG Library & Learning, we specialise in library design and fit. It’s notorious that libraries are quiet spaces, allowing for reading, concentration and learning. In addition to ensuring visitors adhere to these expectations, you can also lower noise levels using various library acoustic solutions.

We design and fit libraries regularly so know the importance of library acoustic solutions, the impact they can have on your space and how the design can level up your library space. From understanding the importance of library acoustic solutions, through Frem Group, we have partnered with Caimi by Frem Group, specialising in different acoustic solutions and giving our clients a range of options for their library, available to us exclusively in the UK.

About Caimi Brevetti

Established in 1949, Caimi Brevetti S.p.A. is one of the leading manufacturers of design orientated furniture and accessories for office and contract furniture market. Their pieces focus on acoustics and reducing noise level within libraries and other environments.

The philosophy underlying the activities of Caimi Brevetti has always been based on a strong vocation for research, experimentation and innovation and derives from the wealth of technical and technological experience acquired since its foundation over sixty-five years ago: hundreds of patented products bear witness to the attention paid to original designs and novel projects.

Caimi Brevetti’s products are easily recognisable; their design, technical and linear yet at the same time essential but refined, conveys the concept of industrial design, combining form and function with a view to mass production based on features such as modularity, versatility, flexibility and a wise choice of materials. Caimi Brevetti’s experimentation of new materials and new industrial technologies with an eye turned not only toward improved productivity but also obtaining an ever-minor impact on the environment as a result of workings producing less pollution and using recycled and recyclable materials. In this context, the patented acoustic panel systems and the Snowsound patented technologies are joined to synthesise design and improve technical and functional performance, all conceived with the utmost respect for the environment. The multiplicity of initiatives of Caimi Brevetti in the fields of design and culture has carried it to the exposition of its products at exhibitions and in museums and led it to take a leading position, receiving major awards, including two ADI Premio Compasso d’Oro and the DesignEuropa Awards by EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office).

The Importance of Good Acoustics in Libraries

There are several reasons why good acoustics are important for libraries. This mostly comes down to what the library is being used for.

Concentration – you need to create an environment where your library users can concentrate. The best way to do this is to invest in some proven acoustic solutions to absorb some of the general noise that is created within a library.

Studying and Learning – Acoustic solutions can promote study and learning which is another activity that libraries are known as being used for. Even things like foot steps can be minimised with the solutions we have available – perfect if your library has a hard floor.

Privacy – within libraries there may be meetings or conversations taking place that need to remain confidential. Good acoustic solutions can ensure that sound travels a minimal distance and other library users do not overhear private information.

Bonus: Aesthetically Pleasing – of course, being functional to support your library users is the most important aspect of your library acoustic solutions. However, being aesthetically pleasing is something we can also incorporate when working with our clients. Whether it’s to fit the colour scheme or overall theming of your library, we can help source a solution that is in keeping with your existing interior, so your library acoustic solutions are not only functional but also enhance your space for your users.  

Library Acoustic Solutions with FG Library & Learning

If you are looking into library acoustic solutions for your space and would like to discuss your options, contact the team at FG Library and Learning today – we look forward to hearing from you.

At FG Library & Learning, we design and supply library furniture, including library seating. Our clients often come to us asking for library seating ideas to encourage reading and give their visitors somewhere comfy to enjoy books and literature.

If you are planning a library redesign or fit-out and are looking for library seating ideas then contact us today. we can talk you through our range and advise what might work well in your space.  

Library Seating Ideas

There are several different types of library seating available – each one has a different purpose. To see our full range, download our brochure here.

Office Chairs

Office chairs in libraries can be used for staff on reception desks or for library users at PC stations or study areas. They provide ergonomic support for helping to maintain good posture and reduce physical strain. Using an office chair can enhance productivity and comfort for the user.

Conference Seating

Conference seating in libraries is designed for group meetings, collaborative projects, and study sessions. Some of our conference seating options are stackable, allowing for flexible room configurations. These chairs typically balance comfort and functionality, ensuring participants remain focused and engaged during longer discussions or workshops.

Soft Seating and Sofas

Our soft seating and sofas for libraries can create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for casual reading, informal meetings, or taking a break from the busy world we live in. The plush cushions and supportive designs can offer a comfortable retreat, encouraging your library users to linger and enjoy the library space.

Children’s Seating Ideas

Our children’s seating options for libraries are tailored to the needs and sizes of young library visitors. Many of our options feature bright colours and playful designs. We also ensure they are made from durable materials so they can withstand the wear and tear that they may be exposed to. These chairs and seats are designed to be both safe and engaging, fostering a love for reading and learning in the younger generation.

Why is Comfortable and Practical Seating Important for Libraries

Comfortable library seating is important for several reasons, contributing to the overall experience and functionality of the library:

Encourages Reading: Comfortable seating allows your library users to spend more time in the library so they can engage in reading, studying, and research. This extended use supports deeper learning and enjoyment of the library’s resources. This increased foot traffic can lead to higher engagement with library programmes and services.

Create a Welcoming Environment and Attract More Visitors: A library with cosy and inviting seating creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This encourages more people to visit and use the library for various activities and meetings.

Support Diverse Needs of Visitors: Your Library will serve a wide range of people, who may have diverse needs and different preferences. Comfortable seating that accommodates different needs—such as quiet study areas, collaborative spaces, and casual reading nooks—ensures that everyone can find a space that suits their purpose.

Well-designed seating can also be more accessible to individuals who may have disabilities or mobility issues. This inclusivity ensures that all visitors can use the library facilities comfortably.

Library Seating Ideas from FG Library & Learning

At FG Library & Learning, we can design and fit your library for you. Library seating is one of the elements we can help with – download our seating brochure here. If you would like to discuss library seating or any aspect of your project, contact our team today.

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