Universal Inclusivity - Designing for Senses

Abstract

Libraries serve as vital social, cultural, and educational centers; however, their design frequently does not meet the needs of users with sensory impairments. Although ramps and elevators enhance physical accessibility, the overall sensory experience is primarily visual, which restricts engagement for numerous individuals. Libraries must advance beyond primary accessibility to create environments that engage multiple senses, thereby providing a more enriched and inclusive experience. This study investigates the potential of multisensory accessibility to transform the spatial experience of the Koninklijke Bibliotheek (KB) in The Hague, thereby enhancing its significance as an inclusive and socially engaging cultural landmark. The study asks: “How can libraries be redesigned as resilient environments that foster social inclusivity and user engagement by integrating multisensory accessibility in both physical and digital spaces?” It further examines the sensory and physical barriers neurodiverse and impaired users face and how multisensory design interventions can improve accessibility, wayfinding and user engagement. A qualitative, comparative case study analysis is employed, analyzing the Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam (Netherlands), Helsinki Central Library Oodi (Finland), and Durham County Library (USA), alongside a literature review of existing studies on multisensory accessibility. The hypothesis asserts that the integration of multisensory design within spatial organization and circulation networks can considerably improve the inclusivity, legibility, and user experience of libraries, thereby providing a framework for accessible and inclusive civic architecture.