In libraries and archives, especially those with a large area and height, the shelves are located from bottom to top. Naturally, it is impossible to get to the top point without a special device. Perhaps, as long as there have been libraries, special ladders have been made for them.
The library stairs were originally made of wood. But recently, other materials, lighter, more durable and convenient to use, are increasingly being used for these purposes. And the designs have undergone significant changes.
Product features
At the moment, there are quite a few described devices that are designed specifically for libraries.
Types of library stairs
- Movable classic design, which is a kind of stepladder. Moves with the help of the user's muscular effort.
- Mobile telescopic structure. It expands at its top. The design is so simple and convenient that it is difficult to overestimate the benefits of such a staircase in the interior. After use, the structure is simply attached to the shelf, taking up a minimum of space.
- Analogue equipped with automatic movement blocking. In this case, the rollers are located at the bottom of the product. In order for the structure to be safe, they are fixed. After using the structure, they can be unlocked and taken to a regular storage location.
- Hanging library ladders with hooks on top. They make it possible to move, hang or completely remove the structure from the guide. To save space, the ladder can be attached vertically to a shelf or wall.
- Wooden ladders. The simplest, classic version, invented at the dawn of mankind. Guides to it are not required, the transfer is done manually. As a rule, wood for such purposes is not used today. Ladders for libraries today are made from light metals, usually aluminum pipes are used.
Note! The improved version can be moved using the rollers installed at the top of the guide. Since they slide easily, the device can be easily moved to the desired location.
- Mobile platform. This is a rather bulky design, on casters or small wheels. Such a ladder is relevant when working with shelving. Ceiling height up to 3 meters is not an obstacle for her. The fenced area at the top will allow you to be there in complete safety. Mobile products are used not only in libraries, but also in warehouses, where access to the upper shelves is much more difficult.
- Movable structures on curved guides. The rotating rollers of the product with the handrail are connected by means of a hinge. This makes it easy to move it along angular paths. This makes these ladders an optimal solution for libraries.
- Ladder chairs. Another classic option. This design is a high chair, which is equipped at the top with a reclining or rigidly fixed seat.
Quality and characteristics
Modern stairs are made of lightweight materials. They are durable and easy to use. Almost no one uses bulky wooden structures.
Although there are lovers of everything old and solid. Often, the owners of their own libraries prefer to make such products with their own hands.
As you know, women usually work in book storages. Of course, you often have to go up to the ceiling itself.
Moving a heavy ladder will be extremely difficult. There are a number of standards by which comfortable and safe products are made.
How to choose and use a product correctly
- Consider the specifics of your book depository or archive. What matters is the height of the ceilings, the flooring, and the height of the shelves.
- When buying, carefully read what the instructions attached to the product say.
- To keep your feet from slipping, choose ribbed or rubber-covered steps for safety.
- Marble and tile floors are especially slippery. For such a cover, pick up a ladder with special tips at the bottom.
Note! If the ladder is equipped with casters or casters, be careful, especially if the floor is sloped. Make sure that there are fixing elements, and do not climb up if they are not engaged.
- Even on the highest staircase, try not to climb up to the top step. You must have a certain safety margin.
- Store and use the device in accordance with regulations. Check the integrity of all parts each time.
- Suspended structures are considered to be safer. However, they are considered more inconvenient to use. If the structure on wheels is more convenient to use in warehouses, then the suspension device will be more relevant in the archive room.
- The stirrup type is considered more durable and safer, therefore, if you have to lower or lift a heavy enough load, it is better to purchase these particular models.
- It is customary to purchase more ladders for the library for private collections, as well as for rooms with a small area. If you do not want to purchase a heavy mobile device, buy duralumin or aluminum.
For lovers of everything original, there are also many design developments. Fitting such innovative ideas into almost any interior, if desired, will not be difficult.
Output
At the moment, there is a huge selection of ladders designed specifically for libraries. Each variety has its own advantages and disadvantages. You just have to determine what qualities of the product are most important to you and purchase just such a model.
And the video in this article will help you understand this topic in more detail.
