MSR Design Principal Kate Michaud will present “Architecting Access: Designing New and Existing Facilities for Unstaffed Self-Service” at the 2026 American Library Association Annual Conference & Exhibition in Chicago.
The session will take place on Saturday, June 27, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM Central.
As public libraries explore expanded access through unstaffed self-service hours, thoughtful planning and design are essential to creating spaces that are secure, welcoming, and easy for patrons to use. Kate will discuss the questions she most often hears from libraries, along with her approach to designing new and existing facilities for maximum patron self-service during nontraditional hours.
Kate will be joined by Kelly Duran, Manager of Express Library and Library To You at Jefferson County Public Library, who will share insight from managing the first fully unstaffed U.S. library branch. Together, they will discuss how libraries can alleviate concerns, build buy-in from administrators, boards, and staff, and introduce extended-access resources to the community.
Moderated by Lisa Stamm and Lynn Yandell of Bibliotheca Solution Consulting, the session will offer practical guidance for libraries considering unstaffed patron self-service in current facilities, future renovations, or new builds.
Attendees will learn key architectural design considerations, planning frameworks for extended access, and policy and procedure strategies that support staff and patron confidence while keeping facilities secure.
