This chapter explores the ways in which library spaces and environments can be organised with people with dementia in mind. Aspects of design discussed include signage, colour schemes, layout, furnishing and lighting. A series of case studies illustrate how these principles have been put into practice in libraries. Some of the examples discussed are the result of large-scale building or refurbishment projects. Whilst not all libraries are in a position to make such dramatic changes to their building structure, many of the ideas described are small changes that can be introduced, often at minimal cost, in existing library environments. As the quote above from Mari Gudim Torp at Deichman Oppsal Library in Norway emphasises, creating a dementiafriendly library is not purely a task for architects and designers. These professionals can do a great deal to put the initial building blocks in place, but in the longer term, it is down to library staff and managers to ensure that library environments remain dementia friendly on a day-to-day basis.

Of course, a library should feel friendly and welcoming to everyone. However, this can be particularly important to people with dementia. It is crucial to remember that, although an accessible building is helpful, people with dementia say that it is the people in the building who make all the difference. Friendly, welcoming staff can override many design problems (DEEP, 2013).

There is detailed guidance available relating to the design of dementiafriendly public spaces. In the UK, for instance, the Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) at the University of Stirling has produced a set of standards for dementia-friendly design and runs a building accreditation scheme. Whilst these standards are not written specifically with libraries in mind, much of the following advice, as summarised by the UK Dementia Action Alliance (DAA, n.d.), is likely to be applicable to library buildings.

• 1 A person with dementia in the building will feel calm and relaxed.

• 2 The building is familiar: consideration has been given to age- and culturally-appropriate design.

• 3 The layout of the building is easy to understand.

• 4 There are high levels of visibility.