Now that I am back from vacation, I’ve been going through my inbox and seeing what questions my podcast listeners and newsletter readers have had. I received a lot of email and direct messages related to my recently published article on The Role of Public Spaces in Driving Innovation, which I wrote after visiting the Gabrielle-Roy Library in Quebec City. I wanted to answer some of those questions with a follow-up short newsletter article.
There were so many questions / comments that I took some time to group them and the four questions below are the ones that capture the bulk of the types of questions I received (sorry, to those asking for restaurant recommendations…that’ll have to be for another time 😃).
Michael, can you elaborate on the specific technologies and tools available in the high-tech workspace of the Gabrielle-Roy Library, and how they support young innovators?
You mentioned the integration of art and education in the Gabrielle-Roy Library. Can you provide more details on how this is implemented and its impact on the community?
The Gabrielle-Roy Library has a significant focus on sustainability and well-being. Could you explain some of the specific biophilic design elements and their benefits?
In your discussion about the Gabrielle-Roy Library, you touched on the importance of inclusive public spaces in preventing elitism. Can you share more about how the library ensures accessibility and inclusivity for all community members?
I’ll do my best to answer the above, which should address some of the other types of questions that came in.
Question 1: The specific tools! Absolutely! The high-tech workspace at the Gabrielle-Roy Library is very impressive. It's equipped with state-of-the-art computers, VR headsets, 3D printers, and other digital creation tools. One of the standout features is the MediaLab, where visitors can experiment with virtual reality to both consume and create within this medium. I won’t get into the details of the equipment itself, as I’ve always felt that equipment can be highly interchangeable and it changes so fast year-over-year. What is important is that there was a variety of technologies available that allowed people to find the tools that most resonated with them. I’d say more important than the tech itself is ensure you have passionate, knowledgable people there to guide others. You cannot inspire young people by trying to fake your way through technology. Additionally, the library includes a fab lab, a music studio, and several practice rooms, providing a versatile environment for a range of creative and technical projects.
Question 2: Integration of art was so beautifully done. The Gabrielle-Roy Library seamlessly integrates art and education through various innovative features. For example, I mentioned in my original article that it has large illustrated panels that provide a visually stimulating environment, encouraging visitors to engage with art in a meaningful way. On another floor, they had these beautiful pull-out racks that had art pieces mounted to them so you could browse collections of work. It was thoughtfully done and gave the whole experience this curated feel. The library also hosts workshops and exhibitions in its arts workshop and projection room, offering hands-on learning experiences. These elements make the library a vibrant cultural hub, fostering a love for the arts and learning among all age groups. This integration helps break down barriers to education and makes cultural enrichment accessible to the broader community
Question 3: I have to admit, I had to look up what the reader meant by biophilic designs. It wasn’t a term that I was familiar with, though I suspected I had an inkling that it was green-wall related. When I looked up various definitions of the term, it focused on increasing the connection between the people in the building with the natural world through various means. The library incorporates several biophilic design elements that enhance sustainability and well-being. One prominent feature is its indoor garden wall I highlighted, which not only purifies the air but also brings a touch of nature into the urban setting. The library's design includes abundant natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights, creating a bright and uplifting environment. These elements contribute to improved mental health, reduced stress, and overall enhanced well-being for visitors. The integration of green spaces within the library underscores the importance of creating environments that are not only innovative but also support human health and ecological balance. What I hadn’t mentioned was that not just the natural world is linked to the space, but also the cultural heritage aspects of the neighbourhood itself - the large windows, outdoor spaces, they all allow for library visitors to be connected to the historical Rue Saint-Joseph. I really loved that aspect of the design.
Question 4: The Gabrielle-Roy Library is designed with inclusivity at its core. It offers free access to residents of Quebec, Wendake, Boischatel, and Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent community members from benefiting from its resources. The library's layout includes spaces tailored for different activities and age groups, such as a children's area, a café, and an outdoor terrace. Additionally, the library frequently hosts community events, workshops, and cultural programs that cater to diverse interests and needs. By providing a wide range of services and maintaining a welcoming environment, the Gabrielle-Roy Library ensures that it serves as a truly inclusive public space for all.
If you want more information, I did a little digging online in order to prepare to answer these questions and the links are below.
Lemay Architects - https://lemay.com/projects/gabrielle-roy-library/
Canadian Architects Site - https://www.canadianarchitect.com/bibliotheque-gabrielle-roy/
The library website itself - https://www.ville.quebec.qc.ca/apropos/planification-orientations/amenagement_urbain/grands_projets_urbains/bibliotheque_gabrielle_roy/