The information that architects receive from librarians will guide them in detail, but there is a danger that, in providing the information, the librarian will assume that the architect is familiar with the type of library to be designed and built. In fact, an architect may assume that one type of library design will fit all, whereas librarians will know that different types of library vary enormously in their spatial requirements.

Firms of architects range from single practitioners to practices with a hundred or more staff. Some specialize in particular types of project. Some include in-house engineering or other design disciplines, for example, landscape architects or interior designers. Each firm will bring its own mix of skills and expertise to the project. A good architect will listen carefully to the librarian's ideas and attempt to turn them into a viable construction project.

The following is drawn from advice issued by the American Institute of Architects (Haviland, 2001) and from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA, 1999). Both of these professional organizations address some of the most frequent issues surrounding architect selection in clear documents. The information is also regularly updated on their respective websites.

General guidelines

Bring the architect into the picture as early as possible

Architects can help define the project in terms that provide meaningful guidance for design. They may also carry out site studies, help apply for planning permission, help locate funding sources, and provide a variety of other design services.

However, it is also useful if the client has already established the nature, size and scope of the project in outline and drawn up an initial briefing document. This will help to determine the type of architect practice they are looking for and to set the criteria for selection. If some form of competitive interview is used, the initial brief will help the architects focus their presentation.

Consider more than one firm of architects

The only exception to this would be if the librarian already has a good relationship with an architect and it makes little sense to change. Procurement regulation may preclude ‘choice by experience’. However, many local authorities have an approved list of architects or in-house architects.