Breathing New Life into the Library: A Conversation with Mr Joel Ford

Though the shelves of our UY library were brimming with books, many went untouched. The library had become more of a backdrop than a hub of learning. That realisation sparked a bold vision: to transform the space into a Living Library, one that breathes, adapts, and evolves with its community.

From Static to Dynamic

The first step was to reimagine the physical layout. “We reduced the number of shelves to open up the room and make space for movement and collaboration,” Joel explains. “Less really is more. By clearing the clutter, we’ve made the books more visible and inviting.”

The entrance, once a mere corridor to the main space, now sets the tone. A vibrant rug, lush plants, and curated displays greet visitors. A cosy reading alcove built into the wall offers a quiet nook, while the school’s tiger mascot now enjoys pride of place on a feature shelf, surrounded by interactive noticeboards and rotating exhibits of books, themes, and student creativity.

“It’s about creating a space that feels human and welcoming,” Joel says. “We want people to pause, look around, and feel at home the moment they step inside.”

Spaces That Inspire

One of the most transformative changes has been the reorientation of the library’s windows. “We have these stunning views, but students used to sit with their backs to them,” Joel notes. Now, a long wooden bench runs along the main window line, encouraging students to work while gazing out at the hills. It’s calm and focused, yet still part of the shared atmosphere.

A smaller window nook has become a favourite hideaway for quiet reading or solo study. “It only seats a few, but it’s already one of the most popular spots,” he adds.

In the heart of the library, creativity takes centre stage. A large bookshelf has been painted with blackboard paint, turning it into a rotating display and message wall. “One of our art teachers, Saffron, created a beautiful calligraphic mural on it,” Joel shares. “It’s a standout feature that reflects our living library philosophy. Eventually, students will be able to add their own quotes and ideas.”

The mindful reading area has also been enhanced, with floor seating and custom cushions on the way. “It’s a space for calm, reflective reading, a place to simply be.”

A Collection That Reflects the Community

The library’s shelves now feature front-facing books and themed displays. Local authors like Ruskin Bond, titles connected to Mussoorie and the Himalayas, and books on mindfulness and well-being are all given pride of place. “We want students to help curate these selections so the space truly feels like theirs,” Joel says.

The transformation is ongoing, and that’s intentional. “A living library is never finished. It changes with the people who use it,” he explains. “We want the displays, furniture, even the walls to evolve throughout the year to reflect what’s happening in our community.”

Reading is being celebrated again. With more visible books, comfortable seating, and interactive displays, the library invites exploration. Students are recommending titles, curating displays, and suggesting new acquisitions. “It’s about making books easier to find, more meaningful, and more connected to our lives.”

More Than Just Books

Beyond the collection, the design of the space plays a vital role in how students learn. “It’s brighter, more open, and more comfortable, a place where people genuinely want to read, study, or just be,” Joel says. “We’re trying to recreate that feeling of being at home in the library. When people feel at ease, they’re more open, to stories, to ideas, to learning.”

Joel’s vision is rooted in years of experience and a deep understanding of how libraries must evolve. “To stay relevant, libraries and librarians must keep reinventing themselves. The question is always: what is the purpose of a library today? The answer keeps changing.”

The concept of a Living Library also draws inspiration from the Human Library movement, which began in Scandinavian public libraries. “It was based on the idea that people themselves are resources, that our stories are as valuable as any book,” Joel explains. “It’s about breaking down prejudice and building understanding through conversation.”

This philosophy is shaping future plans too. “We’d love to partner with the Alumni Office, CFI, StuCo and Passage groups to host storytelling sessions and Living Library events. Every person in our community is a book worth reading.”

Rediscovering Hidden Treasures

As part of the transformation, the team has been reviewing and weeding the collection. “We’ve uncovered so many hidden gems, books that had been sitting quietly for years but deserve another chance,” Joel says. The alumni collection is now more visible and celebrated, with plans to connect it to author visits and alumni events.

The library also boasts a remarkable regional collection focused on Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, and the Himalayas, “a true point of pride,” Joel notes.

In terms of everyday reading, the focus is on fiction that resonates. “We’re expanding our young adult section to include more diverse, engaging, and accessible stories. There’s a book for everyone, it’s just about helping people find what speaks to them.”

A Hub of Activity

While Woodstock libraries have long hosted themed events like Dot Day and Harry Potter Day, many of these took place outside the library. That’s changing. “We want the library to be a vibrant event space in its own right,” Joel says.

New in-library activities, displays, and interactive competitions are making the space feel dynamic and ever-changing. “Students should walk in and see something fresh—a quiz, a creative display, or a book challenge they can join.”

A Space Students Want to Be In

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. “Students who rarely used the library before are now spending time here. Teachers are dropping in more often to read, work, or collaborate,” Joel shares.

The space is lively yet balanced, sometimes buzzing, sometimes quiet. “That’s part of learning how to share a living space. The key is that people want to be here.”

Students are reading more, borrowing more, and exploring the collection. Even during exam week, Grade 12s have said the space helps them feel calmer and more focused.

What’s Next?

“The Living Library is never finished,” Joel says. “There’s always a temptation to say, ‘It looks nice now, let’s leave it,’ but we want it to keep reflecting the life of the school.”

The Library Council and Interns are central to shaping what comes next, and ideas from students and staff are always welcome.

Next up is the Quad Library, which serves the early and middle years. “It’s a smaller but equally important space. We’re working with the Grade 8 Library Council to develop it as a living library too—one that supports a wide age range and fosters the same sense of creativity and belonging.”

Mr Joel Ford’s vision is clear: a library that’s not just a place to store books, but a living, breathing space where stories are shared, curiosity is sparked, and everyone feels at home.