Public libraries as public sphere institutions: A comparative study of perceptions of the public library’s role in six European countries

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role of public libraries as institutions underpinning a democratic public sphere as reasons legitimizing libraries compared to reasons that are more traditional and the actual use of libraries as public sphere arenas. Design/methodology/approach:...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of Documentation 2019
Main Authors: Audunson, Ragnar Andreas, Aabø, Svanhild, Blomgren, Roger, Hobohm, Hans Christoph, Jochumsen, Henrik, Khosrowjerdi, Mahmood, Mumenthaler, Rudolf, Schuldt, Karsten, Rasmussen, Casper Hvenegaard, Rydbeck, Kerstin, Toth, Mate, Vårheim, Andreas
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Citizenship information
Community meeting places
Democracies
Public libraries
Public spheres
Social roles
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Summary:Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role of public libraries as institutions underpinning a democratic public sphere as reasons legitimizing libraries compared to reasons that are more traditional and the actual use of libraries as public sphere arenas. Design/methodology/approach: A survey of representative samples of the adult population in six countries – Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Hungary and Switzerland – was undertaken. Findings: Legitimations related to the libraries role as a meeting place and arena for public debate are ranked as the 3 least important out of 12 possible legitimations for upholding a public library service. Libraries are, however, used extensively by the users to access citizenship information and to participate in public sphere relevant meetings. Originality/value: Few studies have empirically analyzed the role of libraries in upholding a democratic and sustainable public sphere. This study contributes in filling that gap.