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

In: Audunson , R , Aabø , S , Blomgren , R , Hobohm , H C , Jochumsen , H , Khosrowjerdi , M , Mumenthaler , R , Schuldt , K , Rasmussen , C H , Rydbeck , K , Tóth , M & Vårheim , A 2019 , ' Public libraries as public sphere institutions : A comparative study of perceptions of the public library's role in six European countries ' , Journal of Documentation , vol. Vol. 75 , no. No. 6 , pp. 1396-1415 . https://doi.org/10.1108/JD-02-2019-0015

Abstract

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.