Vahl School, Norway

New and Modern School Library

In January 2024, Vahl School in Oslo opened its fully renovated school library – a modern, flexible space created within an entirely new framework. With new shelving, a carefully considered interior design, and clearly defined zones, the library has been developed as both a learning centre and a meeting place, supporting pedagogical activities and use outside school hours.

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Total Renovation

The library was fully renovated as part of the school’s strategic focus on learning, reading enjoyment, and connection to the local community. Over time, the former library had become worn and largely dysfunctional, with limited space, outdated shelving, and an interior that offered little encouragement for activity, collaboration, or well-being.

Through feedback from teachers, pupils, and parents, the need for a more flexible and modern learning environment became clear.

The aim of upgrading the school library was to make the school a more active and inclusive place for both learning and social interaction – during and beyond school hours. Emphasis was placed on increasing reading enjoyment, strengthening language skills, and attracting more visitors among students and families.

Located on the fourth floor, with sloping ceilings and exposed wooden beams, the library’s warm wall and shelving colours create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

”We held a drawing competition where pupils developed solutions filled with ideas and strong engagement. We received long wish lists for a ‘dream library’, many of which were incorporated into the final layout. For example, the pupils wanted more colour in the library and far more places to sit, relax, and read. We hardly had that before – and I missed it too. This has been crucial to how well the space functions today.”

- Stina Braathen Kløven, Library Teacher

The official opening took place on 9 January 2024, with pupils contributing song, dance, and readings as part of the celebration.

”It became a truly magnificent opening, with Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mette-Marit in attendance. We simply thought big. Why not send an email and invite her to the opening? She is passionate about books, reading, and reading motivation. And she said yes! It was a remarkable experience for the school, staff, students, and parents

- Stina Braathen Kløven, Library Teacher

Benefits of the New Library

The result is a flexible, bright, and highly functional library with clearly defined zones.

The school’s library teacher highlights the following successes in particular:

The joy of coming to work every day and experiencing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the space.
That the library functions exceptionally well for pupils of all age groups and can now be used far more effectively than before.
The professional support from BS Eurobib during the design process. The school recommends investing in professional assistance, for example for drawings, concepts, and especially colour schemes.
That the library has become a regular meeting place for pupils and parents in their free time. New children, classes, and parents visit regularly, and it is well known throughout the school that the library is open to anyone seeking inspiration and support.