This paper examines the likely effects of technological developments on the planning of American academic library buildings during the 1980's and shares Richard Snyder's experiences in the design and construction of a new library building at Drexel University in Pennsylvania. Descriptions of general, economic, policy, psychological, and sociological problems in projecting technological developments are followed by an outline of design and construction considerations including modular design, library entrances, ceilings, floors, floor coverings, windows, walls, doors, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), acoustics, electrical power, lighting, energy usage, communications, security and safety, and future expansion. Guidelines on planning for library spaces are also provided, covering administrative organization; general space calculations; reader space; collection space for magnetic disks, video and optical disks, access to electronic publishing, microforms, reserve and reference materials, browsing and special collections, maps, and audiovisual materials; staff space; and other library facilities including public catalog areas, classrooms, exhibit space, and machine repair and photographic space. It is emphasized throughout the paper that library buildings should be designed for the foreseeable future with a maximum of flexibility to accommodate future technological changes. (ESR)