Applying Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) to investigate inclusive design in library spaces. Case studies: Kharazmi, Main Library and Documentation Centre, and the Art and Architecture Libraries

• Fathipour, Anis ^[1] ; Zakeri, Seyyed Mohammad Hossein ^[1] ; Nikkar, Mohammad ^[1]
  1. [1] Shiraz University

     Shiraz University

     Irán

     
• Localización: Journal of accessibility and design for all: JACCES, ISSN-e 2013-7087, Vol. 14, Nº. 2, 2024, págs. 59-85
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • Inclusive architecture aims to create spaces that cater to everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. Public libraries play a pivotal role in this endeavour by providing accessible environments for diverse communities. This study conducts a post-occupancy evaluation (POE) of the inclusivity of three libraries in Shiraz, examining how effectively these libraries cater to the needs of all users through an inclusive design approach. The POE process comprised three steps: planning, implementation, and application. During the planning phase, a checklist of 180 items was compiled and adjusted based on theoretical foundations. These items fell into four general categories: 1-Spatial Design (including spatial design requirements, flooring, ceilings, and walls), 2-Accessibility and Circulation (covering movement paths, ramps, lifts, elevators, and staircases), 3-Amenities and Equipment (such as parking, toilet services, entrances, furniture, and guide signs), 4-Sensory and Atmosphere (addressing lighting, colour, texture, materials, shape, scent, sound, and temperature). In the implementation phase, the evaluation was conducted over three days at the indicator level by a two-person evaluation team. They utilised observation, photography, and metric measurement tools. In the subsequent step, field observations to complete the checklist were carried out, and data entry and analysis were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0 software. The results indicated that all three libraries (MLDC, Art and Architecture, and Khwarizmi libraries) exhibit several weaknesses in terms of inclusive design. The average inclusiveness scores assigned to them were 37.50%, 35.10%, and 34.35%, respectively. As the achievements of the application phase, it can be summarised that the findings of this study provide a practical example for POE research on inclusive design, offering insights for enhancing inclusivity in architectural environments.