Schlipf shares tips for avoiding bad library design in Dewey Decibel podcast

Dewey Decibel podcast
Fred Schlipf
Fred Schlipf, Adjunct Professor

The latest episode of American Libraries’ Dewey Decibel podcast highlights architecture and design of libraries. Host Phil Morehart, editor of the magazine’s annual “Library Design Showcase,” spoke with three guests, including adjunct professor Fred Schlipf.

Schlipf, who teaches a course on library buildings at the iSchool, spoke with Morehart about bad library design and how it can be prevented. Also featured in the episode are Brian Lee of Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill, the chief architect behind Chicago Public Library’s award-winning Chinatown branch; and Kimberly Bolan, president and principal consultant of Kimberly Bolan and Associates and author of Teen Spaces: The Step-by-Step Library Makeover, second edition (ALA Editions, 2008).

Schlipf joined the iSchool faculty as an assistant professor in 1970 and has served as an adjunct professor since becoming director of the Urbana Free Library in 1974. He collaborated with former School director Herbert Goldhor to develop the practicum program and hosted many students. Schlipf’s knowledge of library building projects is extensive: he oversaw a major renovation of the Urbana library building and has served as a consultant on approximately 150 library construction projects. Schlipf is the recipient of the 2015 LSAA Distinguished Service Award, which is given each year to an individual who has served LSAA or the School in an exceptional way.