Reimagining Library & Education Storage

Smart Storage for Smarter Learning Environments

In modern libraries and educational facilities, storage is playing a bigger role than ever. It’s not just about holding books or supplies, it’s about creating spaces that adapt, inspire and evolve.

At O’Brien Systems, we specialize in modular, flexible and smart storage systems that meet the needs of today’s learning environments. Whether you’re managing a public library renovation, a university media center or a K-12 learning hub, our goal is simple: make your space work harder, not just look better.

The Evolution of Library & Education Spaces

Educational and library facilities have become multi-purpose environments. They combine study, technology, collaboration and community engagement all in one place. This shift has changed how storage is planned and designed.

Recent developments at the Lancaster Public Library highlight the importance of adaptable architecture and storage. After operating for decades on North Duke Street, the library undertook a bold move to a new building at Ewell Plaza on Queen Street. The move involved shifting nearly 196,000 books and materials into new shelving systems that could accommodate both present and future needs.

This wasn’t just a change in address, it was an invitation to rethink how storage serves a library’s function, flow and identity.

Flexible Storage Systems That Make a Difference

1. High-Density Mobile Storage

You can reclaim up to 50% of your floor space with compact, rail-mounted shelving. Our high-density systems eliminate unnecessary aisles and can double or even triple your storage capacity without expanding your footprint:

Perfect for:

• Growing collections
• Tight footprints
• Shared learning spaces or archives

Benefits:

✅ Increased capacity
✅ ADA-compliant controls and safety features
✅ Adaptable for books, equipment or archival materials

2. Modular Casework

Need the look of built-in cabinetry without the permanence? Modular casework offers reconfigurable storage that moves when you move. Base cabinets, wall units and workstations are engineered for easy adjustment, ensuring your investment lasts decades.

Perfect for:

• Classrooms and staff work areas
• Library service desks
• Labs, archives or media centers

Benefits:

✅ Factory-assembled and quick to install
✅ Sustainable and LEED®-friendly materials
✅ Lifetime durability and reusability

3. Custom Lockers

From smart laminate lockers to digital touch-lock systems, today’s lockers do more than store. They organize, secure and streamline daily operations. The very definition of smart storage.

Perfect for:

• Students and staff
• Makerspaces or tech labs
• Athletic, recreation and student centers

Benefits:

✅ Mix-and-match door tiers and finishes
✅ Add charging stations, hooks and shelves
✅ Choose smart, mechanical or networked locks

What Makes the Best Storage Strategy?

1. Understand your users & growth projections
Assess current use, growth trends, media types (books, digital, large format, mixed media) and expected shifts in your institution’s mission.

2. Map your zones & flexibility needs
Where will reading, display, circulation, archives and staff work zones be? Leave room for change.

3. Invest in reconfigurable systems, not fixed walls
Focus on systems you can move, adapt, expand or repurpose.

4. Design with human scale in mind
Shelves in reach zones, ADA clearance, lighting and wayfinding matter.

5. Phase your upgrades for affordability
Start in high-impact zones, then expand. Use modular systems to roll out over time.

Why O’Brien Systems

With decades of experience in education, library and institutional storage, O’Brien Systems brings design insight and precision to every project. We partner with leading manufacturers to deliver durable, adaptable systems that make the most of your space and your investment.

Let’s build smart storage spaces together. Contact us today!