Kevin Hennah has worked closely with Public and School Libraries since 2002 on strategies to maximise productivity of space and improve overall presentation and image. His understanding of the operational requirements of libraries is coupled with practical advice that is sensitive to budget restrictions and challenges traditional thinking.

Some of Kevin's experience with libraries includes:

• 2002 Statewide on site training covering each of the 55
  Victorian Public Library services
• Author of Victorian Public Libraries Image Handbook (2005)
• State wide training for NSW Public Libraries (2006)
• Training and follow up consultations for the Waitakere City
  Library Service, New Zealand
• Guest speaker at numerous SLAV conferences (School
  Library Association of Victoria)
• 2006 visits to the innovative new UK libraries, badged as
  'Ideas Stores'
• Guest speaker at school library conferences hosted by Syba
  Signs in Sydney, Mackay, Cairns & Townsville
• Featured section in the 2007 SLAV publication 'Re-think!
  Ideas for inspiring school library design'
• Keynote speaker at the 2007 ALIA National Library Technicians
  Conference
• Input into design of numerous school and public libraries in
  Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney
• Creative concepts for low budget makeovers to
  numerous school and public libraries

PUBLIC SPEAKING:

As a trainer and public speaker, Kevin Hennah brings credibility to his presentations by drawing on his experience training over 350 libraries throughout Australia & New Zealand. His ideas are further reinforced by examples of new libraries into which he has had design input.

Brief Kevin on your needs or choose from one of these popular presentations:

(Click presentation titles for more info)

• Library Layout & Space Management
• Interior Design for Libraries
• Transforming your Library on a Shoe-String Budget

TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS:

Visual Merchandising & Space Management for libraries is a full day workshop that provides inspiration on presentation, layout and signage at all budget levels. The popular workshop, which established Kevin's reputation with libraries, is constantly updated with new photographs of what previous participants have achieved, and continues to attract as many new participants as it does repeat attendance.

Click for more info on workshop

Click here for participants' comments

CONSULTATION:

Planning a new library? Renovating? Or simply seeking fresh ideas to reinvent your space on a tight budget? Kevin Hennah's experience working with retailers such as The Body Shop, Virgin Mobile, OshKosh, Westfield, Kathmandu and Australia Post is fused with a thorough understanding of the practical needs of libraries.

Armed with hundreds of inspiring photographs, equally as many exciting ideas and importantly, a desire to listen to what staff need, Kevin Hennah offers innovative ways to bring new life to libraries.

"I believe presentation standards are critically important to libraries. Here are a few of my thoughts on library set up and presentation": ·

• All libraries need to be much more proactive about promotion. Of the hundreds of libraries I have visited, very few have effective external signage. I also think most miss obvious opportunities to actively promote their web site and diverse range of resources.
• As much as I am excited by developments in technology, I am concerned about Public Libraries that rely on computers to maintain customer numbers. Perhaps too many eggs are in one basket! Especially given the fast growing trend for home-based and inexpensive (or free) access.
• I also understand that computers play a critical role in schools and learning. However, it does concern me that in many schools, a student could visit the library to attend a class or use the Internet without walking past a book or even seeing a book cover. It seems the category that needs the most promotion, often gets the least!
• It's easy to attribute lower than desirable stats to Internet usage; however, I think the book merchandising strategy in many libraries is a greater threat to loans. Customers are constantly looking for faster and more efficient ways to meet needs. As consumers, we choose things that look great and are simple to access. Is your layout and signage encouraging visitors to 'shop' your collection and pick up items on 'impulse'?
• When building or renovating public libraries, consider opportunities to benefit from the traffic generated by council services that share the building. Become a destination! If possible incorporate a cafe, an art space, garden area, bookstore or small business incubator into new branches.
• I think it is important for library staff to trust the architect's ideas on design - particularly if they are innovative. Equally, I think it is imperative that the architect listens to and accommodates your operational needs.
• If Public Libraries are not attracting a younger demographic, consider what non-verbal messages your branch projects; the way you look has a direct impact on customer's perceptions of what you have to offer. Traditional library styles of display and promotion need to be challenged!
• I often joke that creating a Teenage section in a Public Library is almost like the librarian wanting to Dewy visitors too! I don't object to creating an area where Teenagers might like to sit together, but more importantly, I believe the entire library should be relevant to teenagers. As an example, check out the achievements of the team at Thuringowa Public Library, FNQ.
• Think like a customer - if there's anything in your library that you would not like to see in your favourite bookstore, deal with it today. Rejuvenate, refresh, repaint, or even get rid of it!
• For many libraries, simply letting go of the sea of A4 paper signs and clip art can transform the space - and best of all, it's free!
• Importantly, don't allow a lack of funds to hold you back as you do not need to spend a lot to make a difference!