Libraries – how companies do not understand open spaces

My library has a hodgepodge of flat tables for 4, easy chairs, a few carrels, study rooms that can be reserved, a cafe with a dining area, etc. The computer labs are like sardine tins. This British library was designed thus because everybody went to the library to read books and write on paper, but since my library includes packets of vegetable seeds and tickets to museums, everybody goes to the library to do all sorts of disparate things, so the furniture must be versatile enough to accommodate everything, while discouraging sleeping.

Libraries formerly observed a strict code of silence, and this floorplan appears to cater to solitary readers, so a library, being filled with solitary patrons pursuing their own research goals, does not serve as an analog to a workspace with teams who collaborate and communicate actively.

The worst jobs I ever held were in call centers. I pity everyone who phones me from a call center because I can hear the cacophony behind them. It was truly impossible for me to concentrate or hear myself think. Working alone in a modern library is a little better than that.

This idea of the place inspiring beyond ourselves is wonderful.

So, why not find ways of inspiring their employees beyond that particular job? ... What if more companies found ways to inspire people in very honest ways?

I don't particularly like corporate-speak on the walls or vague mission statements. But if there was a way to remind people of the following message, I think it would go a long way: "People will work here for varying lengths of time. While they are here, treat each other with respect. Let's share the best of ourselves. When these efforts align, our organization thrives, and we can keep working together in ways that we can feel good about."

The corollary, I think, would be "If we have to treat each other like sh*t in order for our company to be successful, what the heck are we doing here?" I somewhat prefer the negative phrasing.

Apologies for the idealism. Ultimately, messaging is only as good as its authenticity and follow up. If a company says e.g. "Come to Hooli to do your best work" and then offers ineffective working spaces, it is time to add an asterisk; e.g. "* under the constraints of having to work in a loud, unproductive, distracting environment."