My thesis is a study of the library as a building type in the context of Zimbabwe and is an attempt to architecturally respond to social, economic and environmental conditions in a post-colonial context. The library can be a catalyst for more sustainable development in Africa but will lose its value if it does not adapt to meet the changing socio-economically needs of society.
Central to the thesis are two key aims: the integration of new multi-functional hybrid spaces in the library program and the increased permeability of information access. The thesis is a study of what improvements can be made to the existing library program. My exploration draws from the works of post-colonial theorists, and I have identified certain psycho-existential, social, and architectural ‘dualisms.’ My goal is not to achieve ‘universalism,’ through design, rather it is to re-frame these ‘dualisms’ and highlight the value of their reciprocity.
The Harare City Library (built in 1963) is the site for this intervention, and is located on the Civic Centre in Zimbabwe’s capital city. The library’s prominent location remains, but its social relevance and accessibility has been diminished over time, exacerbated by the nation’s economic hardships. This proposed renovation and expansion of the library seek to establish the library as vibrant cultural arts and information center with free access.