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Who All Can Use Flat File Storage Cabinets?

Architect student at desk, surrounded by architecture flat file plans and design samples, deep in work.
January 16, 2024
Who All Can Use Flat File Storage Cabinets?

Where Are Flat File Storage Cabinets Used in Academic Settings?

Effective flat file storage solutions are a must for all types of academic environments. Projects ranging from art displays to science experiments require ample and specialized storage. This is to effectively maximize space without causing damage to documents, artwork, or other delicate projects. If you're familiar with the typical elementary classroom environment when a painting project or science experiment is due, finding a paper storage solution for such complex needs may seem impossible.

Luckily, there are practical and attractive storage solutions that can safely supply file storage, document storage, and project storage without taking up all your available space or resulting in damaged assignments. Flat File Storage Systems provide an optimal space to store artwork, media projects, and maps while keeping classrooms, libraries, and archive rooms organized. These are the three most common settings where flat file cabinets are successfully utilized.


How is Flat File Storage Commonly Used in Libraries?

Academic and public libraries store and archive a wide range of media for research and teaching purposes. They can neatly stack and display textbooks and other volumes on traditional library furniture. However, they must store some sensitive types of media carefully to preserve their shape and quality. Librarians require unique storage for 3-D representations, raised or textured topographical maps, and a wide array of transparencies.

To maximize the use of counter space for reading and computer workstations, the Flat File System by Diversified Spaces is an ideal solution for libraries. With space to hold up to 24" x 36" paper, this file system supports up to 15 drawers to provide ample storage. Designed with interlocking features, they can stack or place the pieces independently of one another. 

Flat file storage with five drawers.Flat file storage with five drawers.
Flat File System by Diversified Spaces

The Mobile Five Drawer Storage Unit by Stevens Industries is an excellent choice for school or public libraries. Adding a mobile storage unit for flat files in a public or school library optimizes space and enhances accessibility. Its mobility allows for effortless reconfiguration, enabling librarians to adapt the layout dynamically and make resources more easily available to patrons, fostering a versatile and user-friendly library environment.

Mobile flat file storage unit with five drawers.Mobile flat file storage unit with five drawers.
Mobile Five Drawer Storage Unit by Stevens Industries

How are Flat File Cabinets Utilized in Science Rooms, and What Purpose does Flat File Storage Serve in Art Classrooms?

Typical classroom spaces are designed for textbooks, notebooks, and singular displays. Yet, art and science environments demand space for larger flat files and work in progress that will suffer damage if stacked on top of one another. To accommodate drying paint and 3D projects, art and science rooms need flat file storage with ample space. Often, they designate such departments as multi-use rooms that require art furniture that will pull double duty for multiple programs. 

When you're seeking multi-use furniture for art or science storage, the Rock & Paper Storage Cabinet by Diversified Spaces delivers seven large drawers and three adjustable shelves. 

Flat file storage cabinet with its doors open and six flat files. Flat file storage cabinet with its doors open and six flat files.
Rock & Paper Storage Cabinet by Diversified Spaces

For paper drying or textured paper projects, the Contender Series Mobile Paper Drying & Storage Rack by Wood Designs offers 15 shelves. This is to neatly contain multiple projects without damage or taking up a large amount of space. 

Mobile flat file file storage rack.Mobile flat file file storage rack.
Contender Series Mobile Paper Drying & Storage Rack by Wood Designs

When you're looking for something larger, Giant Stacking Trays by Safco provides a similar design. It has giant stacking trays up to 15 1/4" W x 34" deep.

Giant Stacking Trays by Safco


What is the Function of Architectural Flat File Storage Cabinets?

If your academic institution offers an Architecture degree program, a flat file storage system is a must-have for student deliverables and faculty research documents. Large documents like blueprints and design plans require specialized storage that enables easy access. Architecture firm furniture must be secure enough to keep privileged client information safe, secure, and organized. This includes project drawings and schematics.

The Paper Storage Cabinet by Diversified Spaces has seven pull-out drawers measuring 41''W x 24' 'D x 3'' H. It offers optimal storage space for flat items like paper, blueprints, and maps. The cabinet can also be used as an active work surface. It provides a furniture piece that does double duty in the classroom or office. 

Seven drawer paper storage cabinet with one door open. Seven drawer paper storage cabinet with one door open.
Paper Storage Cabinet by Diversified Spaces

For a customizable option, Safco Steel Flat Files is another great option for architectural and engineering students. With welded steel construction and museum or archival-quality paint finishes, files will be safe from corruption. 

Steel Flat Files with 5 or 10 Drawers by Safco


While academic requirements, theories, and applications evolve constantly, a durable flat file storage system can meet your changing needs for many years to come. Worthington Direct is a team of furniture experts. We have decades of excellent customer service experience in educational, institutional, and commercial furniture.

Worthington Direct carries flat file storage cabinets designed to meet a range of needs suited to academic environments. Get in touch for personalized professional advice on solutions that will meet your flat file storage needs in any environment.

Last updated 1/16/2024

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