This master thesis examines libraries as physical space in the digital age and deals especially with the future of public libraries. Initially reviewing and identifying a historical overview of topological and social development of libraries, detailing their changes over the centuries. Starting from the historical review and based on sociological, economical and socio-political aspects, new tasks of public libraries are analysed. The theoretical study, incorporating the investigation of pioneering libraries during the 21st century take place in the analysis.
The gained knowledge from the theoretical analysis allows the conception and execution of the project. The basis of this initiates an architectural competition of the city Jena (Germany) from March 2017, which deals with a new building for the public library in combination with civil services. Based up on the theoretical section of the study, the requirements of the competition and the urban analysis enables the design to be developed.
