Application of semiotic analysis to public library buildings : development of a methodology and case study of the Wellington public library

Abstract

This project uses a semiotic framework to analyse the interior and exterior architectural codes of Wellington Public Library. It explores how these codes express and support the social meanings of Public Libraries. Its purpose is to highlight the architectural codes present in this particular building, codes which are often inhabited rather than consciously interacted with, and to interpret how these codes function as a communication act. Both the architectural code and the resultant communication act are discussed in relation to the Library's function and the ideals embodied in its mission statement and charter. Within the terms of reference of this project, Wellington Public Library achieved a median success in its ability to communicate through its interior and exterior architectural codes. Further research is recommended on the impact of the information shift from print/ place location to digital/cyberspace location. This is of particular concern to the social aspects of the Public Library building as a communication act involving place is closely linked to notions of the public domain.