CIRCULATION

Circulation has the meaning as circulation in one place to another. Space to move/circulation
space is defined as a rope that is seen to connect the spaces of a building or one part with another
inside and outside the building

A well-designed circulation system supports the core mission of a library, which is to provide access
to information and services. It includes primary, secondary, and tertiary pathways that connect
various functional zones such as reading areas, reference sections, study rooms, and administrative
offices. The design considers factors like accessibility, safety, and the seamless integration of
technology.

The use of facilities by library users causes many areas to become joint activity zones which
actually disturb the comfort of other users. Such as the distance between the collections of shelves
that cause contact between one user and another, the distance between the collection rack and
the reading table that interferes with the circulation of the library user, the distance between the
chairs is narrow so that it interferes with the circulation paths of other users and users who sit
behind them.

Elements of Circulation
These are some of the type of elements of circulation:-

Approach
Approach (The Distance View):- This is the first phase of the circulation system, during which we are
prepared to see, experience, and use the spaces within a building.
The approach may contrast with what is confronted at its termination, or it may be continued on
into the building’s interior sequence of spaces.

It is the first and important face of the circulation system, during which we get to see, experience,
and use the spaces within the building. The approach can be linear, oblique, or spiral. It creates or
highlights the path from a point to the building entrance or termination. The path may continue into
the interior spaces of the building or have a different flow.

Types of Approach:

Frontal: A frontal approach leads directly to the building’s main entrance in a straight axial path
without any visual barrier or any other kind of barrier. This kind of approach also gives a clear view
of the front building façade and highlights the entrance.

Oblique: This kind of approach leads in two directions to the building’s main entrance. The image of
the building can be seen from a perspective, or isometric, which makes the building façade and
form appear in different ways. This approach can also be created purposefully to delay or redirect
the movement to the building.
Spiral: This kind of approach leads in a circular or spiral manner that emphasizes the
three-dimensional form of the building, and it certainly takes you around the parameters of the
building. This kind of approach is provided to highlight the specific detail of the building from a
particular point and to make it mysterious. You won’t be able to find out about the front of the
building until the point of arrival.

Entrance

Entrance (From outside to inside):- It is a space within the space or part of the space that
welcomes a user into a building. The main meeting point of the building is from where users lead
to the other spaces. It can be located at the center, edge, or any part of the wall. Just be clear
about the position where it suits you the best.

Types of Entrance
Flushed: This type of entrance is designed on the wall with the continuity of the surface of a wall.

Projected: This type of entrance is designed outside the surface of the main wall of the building. It
is projected out of the main wall, which can be covered from the other three sides but cannot be.
This can depends on your design preferences. It provides shelter to the entrance and saves it from
climatic factors, and it also enhances the overall aesthetics of the building.

Recessed: This type of entrance is designed inside the main wall by breaking the continuity of the
main wall. Having this kind of entrance not only provides shelter to the users within the building
but also opens up three different ways to navigate inside the building (preferred design only).
 Configuration of path

Configuration of path (The sequence of space):- The relationship to the spaces and movement
pattern

Linear: The movement occurs in a linear manner in a straight path, which can create a series of
spaces for better circulation.

Radial: This type of movement occurs from one point in multiple directions and ends in different
spaces. The movement can also be from different spaces to a common or terminating point.

Spiral: This kind of movement occurs from a starting point and revolves around it in a circular or
rectangular manner.

Grid: the most common type of movement and the best one of all. This type of movement has
two parallel sets of paths that intersect each other at regular intervals and create a grid-like
movement pattern.

Network: This type of movement consists of random paths that meet at an established point in a
space or area.

Composite: It consists of the combination of above-all movement patterns, which can be chosen
one or two to form a pattern or above-all in one. It depends on your design and preferences.

Path and Space relationship

Path and Space relationship (Edges, nodes, meeting points, and termination of path):- It can be
classified into three types:
Pass by spaces: a liner path that is passing between different spaces and connecting them through
it.
Flexible ways of movementConnection with all the spaces is achieved.

Pass through space: a liner path that is passing through the space midway, sideways, axially,
obliquely, etc.

Terminate in space: The movement is ending in space.

The location of the space determines the path.The relationship is used to approach and enter a
space.
Form of the circulation space

Form of the circulation (Corridor, Balconies, Galleries, Hallways, Stairs, Rooms, etc. Its boundaries
are defined as enclosed, open on one side, and open on both sides.

Enclosed: creating a public or private corridor that relates to the spaces it links through the
entrance in the wall.

Open on one side: forming a visual and spatial continuity with the spaces it links.

Open on both sides: to become a physical extension of the space it passes through.

Modes of Circulation:
Horizontal Circulation
Vertical Circulation
Mechanical movements (Vertical + Horizontal)

Horizontal Circulation
Horizontal circulation refers to movement on a single level or floor. The circulation occurs mainly in
linear mode from x places to y places on the same level. It includes corridors, hallways, walkways,
passages, catwalks, and skywalks (generally connect two different buildings at the same levels) that
connect different rooms, spaces, or areas within a building. Horizontal circulation facilitates the flow
of people and goods across a floor, allowing access to various destinations within the same level.

Vertical Circulation
This type of circulation involves movement between different levels or floors within a building. It
includes elements of circulation such as staircases, elevators, escalators, ladders, and ramps that
enable people to move vertically on different floor levels. These are usually located in a spacious
central concourse or atrium, at junctions or corners, and within the large space areas. Vertical
circulation is essential for connecting multiple floors and ensuring efficient access to various spaces
within a building.
Mechanical Movements (Vertical and Horizontal)
It refers to the use of mechanical systems or electrical devices to facilitate movement within the
building on the same level or different levels. It consists of both vertical and horizontal circulation
modes. These are designed to transport people safely to different floors or the same level. They are
designed to streamline movement, increase efficiency, reduce human efforts, and improve the
overall user experience in a building. They also play a crucial role in large areas where traffic is
high because they allow smooth and controlled movement. Some of the examples of mechanical
movements:-

Escalators
Moving Walkways
Lifts

HORIZONTAL VERTICAL
CIRCULATION CIRCULATION

HORIZONTAL
CIRCULATION
Horizontal circulation involves the pathways and routes that allow people to move horizontally
across different spaces on the same floor level. Effective horizontal circulation is crucial for
ensuring accessibility, ease of movement, and clear navigation.
Here are the key components and considerations

Primary Circulation:
Primary circulation refers to the main pathways that provide access to the most important
destinations within the building. These are typically the broadest and most direct routes designed
to handle the highest volume of traffic.
Characteristics:
Main Corridors: These are the primary hallways that connect major areas such as entrances, exits,
central lobbies, main reading rooms, and other significant public spaces.

Accessibility: These pathways are usually designed to be wide and unobstructed, ensuring
accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities.

Wayfinding: Clear signage and intuitive layout are critical in primary circulation paths to guide
users efficiently to their destinations.

Secondary Circulation
Secondary circulation comprises the smaller network of paths that branch off from the primary
circulation routes to connect to other features and areas within the building.
 Characteristics:

Connecting Corridors: These are narrower pathways that lead from the main corridors to
specific areas such as individual study rooms, smaller reading areas, or specialized collections.

Functional Segmentation: Secondary paths often help in segregating different functions within
the library, ensuring smooth flow and minimizing congestion in primary areas.

Wayfinding: While still important, the signage here may be more focused on specific sections or
features rather than general directions.

Tertiary Circulation
Tertiary circulation refers to the informal and spontaneous movement that occurs within a
space. These are often less defined and more organic in nature, allowing for exploration and
incidental movement.

Characteristics:
Informal Paths: These might include the spaces between bookshelves, seating areas, or the
open areas within larger rooms.

Flexibility: Tertiary circulation is flexible and adapts to how users move within the space, often
influenced by the placement of furniture, displays, or temporary setups.

User Behavior: These paths are shaped by how users interact with the space, whether they are
browsing books, wandering through exhibits, or finding a spot to sit and read.

PRIMARY
CIRCULATION

SECONDARY
CIRCULATION

TERTIARY
CIRCULATION

PRINCIPLES OF CIRCULATION

1. Hierarchy
Hierarchy ensures that different circulation paths are appropriately designed according to their
importance and usage frequency.

Primary Paths: These should be the widest, most direct, and highly visible. In a library, primary
paths would include the main corridors leading from the entrance to key areas like the central
lobby, main reading rooms, and primary service points (e.g., information desks).

Design: Use wide corridors with high ceilings and ample lighting to create a sense of openness
and importance. Primary paths should have clear sightlines to major destinations and should
accommodate heavy foot traffic.
Secondary Paths: These connect the primary paths to other important but less central areas such
as smaller reading rooms, study areas, and special collections.

Tertiary Paths: These are informal, smaller pathways that facilitate spontaneous movement and
exploration, such as between bookshelves or around seating areas.

2. Legibility
Legibility ensures that circulation paths are easy to understand and navigate.
Clear Marking: Use signs, floor markers, or different flooring materials to clearly indicate the
primary, secondary, and tertiary paths.

Alignment: Paths should be straightforward, minimizing unnecessary twists and turns.

3. Accessibility
Accessibility ensures that paths accommodate the needs of all users, including those with
disabilities.
All circulation paths should be smooth and free of obstacles.

Barrier-Free: Paths should be wide enough to allow easy movement for wheelchairs, strollers, and
other mobility aids.

Appropriate Slopes, Widths, and Clearances: Ensure that paths meet regulatory requirements for
accessibility.

DESIGN STRATERGIES
A list of the various reasons for visiting a library, in order
of movement-activity ratios and need for seclusion,
may be grouped as follows:-

Group 1. Return a book.

Consult the catalogue for the- details of a book.
Consult the librarian.
Consult the catalogue, find a book on the stacks and
borrow it.

Group 2 Consult the catalogue, find a book on the stacks and

browse in it.
Scan the shelves, select a book and browse.
Consult a reference book or browse in a periodical.

Grou 3 Bring one's own books and/ar take a book from the
stacks and engage in prolonged study.

By minimizing interaction between these groups, the library can function more efficiently and
users can have a better experience.

Browsing Area as a Buffer Zone

Placing a browsing area between the administration/stock areas and the study area serves as a
transitional space. It allows users to move from one part of the library to another without causing
disturbances. The browsing area can house materials that users might want to quickly look
through, reducing traffic and noise in the study area.

Physical Barriers
Using special stacks containing reference books or periodicals as physical barriers between
different areas helps to visually and acoustically separate spaces. These barriers prevent noise
and movement from the browsing area from disrupting users in the study area.
Avoiding Inappropriate Layouts
Study areas should not be located on either side of gangways leading to stacks because this
layout can cause disturbances from people moving back and forth. Instead, study areas should be
placed in quieter, more isolated parts of the library.

Design Formula
The design formula outlines a logical sequence for organizing library spaces:
Movement Area: This is where most of the traffic happens, including supervision, cataloging, and
main book stacks.
Buffer Zone: Acts as a transition area with selected book stacks and periodical displays.
Prolonged Study Area: Dedicated for users who need a quiet and undisturbed environment for
extended periods of study.

STUDY BUFFER ZONE MOVEMENT AREA

AREA
 1.3 M 1.5 M 2.3 M

NARROWEST AISLE CIRCULATION ROUTE NORMAL WIDTH

1 M

1.9 M
1.4 M 0.6 M

1 M

WHEN BOOKS ARE MOVED BETWEEN

SEATED AND STANDING USERS

TYPES OF CIRCULATION ROUTES

WIDTHS AND CLEARANCES
Conceptual Orientation

Definition and Importance:

Conceptual orientation refers to the awareness and understanding of circulation elements and
the arrangement of facilities within a building.
It includes how visitors expectations and prior experiences influence their navigation and
perception of the space.

Application in General Circulation:

Consciousness of Circulation Elements:
Users should be aware of the major circulation routes, exits, entrances, and key destinations
within the building.
This awareness is fostered through clear and intuitive design, such as well-marked primary paths
and visible landmarks.

Arrangement of Facilities:
The spatial arrangement should logically connect various functions and services to facilitate easy
navigation.
For instance, in an office building, conference rooms might be centrally located, while individual
offices are positioned around the perimeter.

Expectations and Prior Experiences:

Designers must consider that visitors will navigate based on their previous experiences with
similar spaces.
Providing familiar elements, like standard signage and predictable layouts, helps users feel more
comfortable and oriented.

ORIENTATION OF
SERVICES , MEETING
ROOMS, RESTROOMS
AND STAICASE

LIFT AND STAIRCASE

RESTROOMS

STAFFROOMS
WAYFINDING :

Wayfinding is a critical aspect of library design that ensures users can easily navigate the
space, find their desired destinations, and make the most of the library's resources. It involves a
combination of spatial layout, signage, and interactive elements to guide users effectively.

Key Elements of Wayfinding

Spatial Layout and Zoning

Clear Layout: A logical and clear spatial layout is the foundation of effective wayfinding. This
involves designing pathways, rooms, and sections in a way that intuitively guides users through
the library.

Zoning: Libraries often have different zones for various functions such as reading areas, study
rooms, children's sections, computer stations, and special collections. Clear zoning helps users
understand the library's layout and find their way around easily.

Signage
Directional Signage: Signage that guides users to different sections of the library. This includes
arrows, floor maps, and directories placed at key decision points like entrances, elevators, and
intersections.

Informational Signage: Provides information about the library’s resources, services, and
facilities. This includes signs for restrooms, exits, information desks, and emergency procedures.

Consistent Design: Signage should have a consistent design in terms of color, typography, and
symbols. This uniformity helps users quickly recognize and understand the signs.

Landmarks and Visual Cues

Architectural Features: Unique architectural elements such as atriums, staircases, or large

windows can serve as landmarks, helping users orient themselves within the library.
Corridors and Entrance Lobbies

Direct Routes: Corridors should provide direct routes to key areas without unnecessary turns or
dead ends.

Natural Light and Ventilation: Corridors should be well-lit and ventilated.Entrance Lobbies: Should
be welcoming, spacious, and provide clear directional information.

Furniture Arrangement and Interior Layout:

Definition: Placement of furniture and overall interior design to facilitate movement and usability.

Functional Placement: Furniture should be placed to support the intended use of the space and not
obstruct pathways.

Flexible Layout: The layout should be flexible to accommodate different uses and allow for easy
reconfiguration.

Visual and Physical Comfort: The arrangement should provide visual interest and physical comfort
without creating barriers to movement.

VERTICAL CIRCULATION

There are two rules of thumb when it comes to designing circulation.

The key circulation pathways should:
be clear and unobstructed,
follow the shortest distance between two points.

The reason for these two rules of thumb is fairly obvious: people want to be able to move around a
building with ease and efficiency, and without feeling or being lost.

Vertical circulation addresses the movement between different floors and levels within a building.
Stairs, escalators, ramps, and elevators are key components, each chosen based on the building's
specific needs and the desired flow of traffic. Through careful design, vertical circulation elements
become more than mere functional necessities; they transform into significant architectural
features that contribute to the building's identity and user experience.

Staircases designed not just for movement but as architectural statements, providing visual and
tactile experiences that enrich the journey between levels.Elevators and escalators placed
strategically to ensure efficient flow while complementing the building's aesthetics and functional
requirements.

Vertical Circulation will often be present on the obstacle free route , it can be accessible to all
users. An obstacle free route is an accessible route that is free from steps and physical
obstructions such as lighting and columns, furniture.
Creating an Obstacle-Free Route:

An obstacle-free route ensures that all users, including those with disabilities, can move through the
building without encountering physical barriers. This involves:

Step-Free Access
Ramps and Elevators: Incorporate ramps and elevators at all changes in level to provide an
alternative to stairs. Ensure these elements are easily identifiable and accessible.

Floor Continuity: Avoid steps or abrupt level changes within floors. Use gentle slopes where
necessary to accommodate changes in elevation.

Clear Pathways
Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture and fixtures to ensure clear, wide pathways that are free
from obstructions. Avoid placing furniture or equipment in circulation paths.

Signage and Lighting: Use clear, consistent signage to guide users along accessible routes. Ensure
pathways are well-lit to enhance visibility and safety.

Avoiding Physical Obstructions

Placement of Elements: Ensure that lighting fixtures, columns, and other elements are placed
outside of circulation paths. Avoid creating obstacles that could impede movement.

Providing equal visibility to accessible means of Vertical Circulation:

Equal prominence and visibility should be given to accessible means of Vertical circulation. This
means that lifts should be located so that they are equally visible to stairs and escalators, both
when approached from the top and bottom.

EASILY VISIBLE
FROM THE
LOBBY AND
OTHER SPACES