Multi-space Design of University Libraries from the Perspective of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jes.202502419

Author(s)

Zhinan Qin

Affiliation(s)

Yangjiang Campus Library, Guangdong Ocean University, Yangjiang, Guangdong, China

Abstract

With the in-depth development of information technology and the higher requirements of talent training for high-quality development, university libraries are facing the challenge of role and function transformation. At the same time, the user needs of university libraries are increasingly diversified, evolving from the utilization of library resources and the usage of learning and working spaces, into collaboration, sharing, innovation, social contact, experience, display, cultural exchange, intangible cultural heritage protection, emotional healing and others. Based on the literature research results and the user needs analysis, this study proposed to divide the multi-space of university libraries into six parts: collection space, learning space, office space, maker space, exhibition space and healing space. Then, from the perspective of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory, the specific needs of the six spaces in five levels of physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem and self-actualization are analyzed. Finally, the corresponding design strategies were proposed to help university libraries transform and upgrade their roles and functions, and enhance the user experience.

Keywords

University Libraries; User Needs; Multi-space; Design Strategies; Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory

References

[1] Chen Jianlong, Wang Xincai, Shao Yan, et al. Compass of Academic Library Modernization (CALM) Report on Resource-Service Integration. Journal of Academic Libraries, 2025, 43(1):38-48. [2] Long Xiaonong, Cao Haixia. Historical Review of Space Construction in University Libraries and Reflections on the Direction of Change. Journal of Academic Library and Information Science, 2023, 41(2):45-50. [3] He Li. The Strategy of Physical Space Reconstruction in University Libraries Under Immersive Experience Mode. Journal of Suihua University, 2024, 44(11):136-138. [4] Liu Jingdian. Designing Emotional Healing Spaces in Public Libraries: Motivation，Current Situation and Realisation Mechanisms. Shanxi Library Journal, 2025(4):39-45. [5] Liu Xiaoshu, He Jingtang, Mao Yalong, et al. Innovative Design Concepts and Strategies of Libraries from the Perspective of the "Four-Space Model". South Architecture, 2022(12):55-63. [6] Abraham H. Maslow. A Theory of Human Motivation. Psychological Review, 1943, 50(4):370-396. [7] Yu Wei, Liang Yi, Lin Qiang, et al. Construction of Learning Spaces in University Libraries Based on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory. Chinese Journal of Medical Library and Information Science, 2022, 31(10):56-62. [8] Li Sainan, Ouyang Meng, Liu Hua. Research on the Future Learning Space Construction of University Libraries from the Perspective of Multi-integration. Library Journal, 2024, 43(8):72-81. [9] Li Xin, Xu Yuequan. Research on the Construction of Learning Commons in University Libraries Based on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory. Library Work and Study, 2022(11):121-128. [10] Deborah L. Christoffersen, Clifton B. Farnsworth, Evan D. Bingham, et al. Considerations for Creating Library Learning Spaces Within a Hierarchy of Learning Space Attributes. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 2021, 47(6): 102458-. [11] Chen Jianlong, Shao Yan, Zhang Huili, et al. Compass of Academic Library Modernization. Journal of Academic Libraries, 2022, 40(1):22-33. [12] Gong Jiaoteng, Hong Fanglin. Construction of Spatial Scenarios for Future Learning Centers in University Libraries—A Case Study of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Research on Library Science, 2024(5):42-52+117.