“Part of My Daily Life”: The Importance of Public Libraries as Physical Spaces

Hider, Philip; Garner, Jane; Wakeling, Simon; Jamali, Hamid R.

doi:10.1080/01616846.2022.2092347

Cited by 9 publications

(3 citation statements)

References 19 publications

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“…Consistent with prior studies, fostering a community sense of belonging can significantly elevate overall wellbeing [34]. While individual factors undeniably influence wellbeing, external factors such as community connectivity and local pride also play pivotal roles, as highlighted in policies such as the 'Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015' and 'The UK Government's Levelling Up Policy' [35][36][37].…”

Section: Comparison With Existing Literaturesupporting

confidence: 53%

Public libraries to promote public health and wellbeing: a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling adults

Karki,

El Asmar,

Sasco

et al. 2024

BMC Public Health

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Background Libraries in the UK have evolved from traditional book-lending institutions into dynamic community hubs, This study aims to explore the potential of libraries to act as community hubs to promote mental and physical health and wellbeing of community-dwelling adults, drawing on insights from both library users and library staff in England. Design A mixed-method, cross-sectional study using online survey and interviews with community-dwelling adults and library staff. Methods We collected data using a 14-item electronic survey and interviews with library users and staff to gauge perceptions. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to identify key trends and emergent themes. Results We included 605 respondents from the survey and interviewed 12 library users and staff. Libraries remain popular and are considered a ‘safe place by members of the community, regardless of their frequency of service usage irrespective of whether they are frequent users of services. However, a lack of awareness among library users about community-facing services could act as a hurdle to improving community health and wellbeing. Targeted engagement with residents is needed to increase awareness of libraries’ services, including community interventions to help tackle loneliness and inequalities in digital and health literacy. Library staff often did not feel involved in important decision-making. Various barriers, drivers and practical recommendations were identified to leverage libraries as hubs to promote community health and wellbeing. Conclusion Libraries already offer a variety of resources that directly or indirectly support the health and wellbeing of community-dwelling adults and young people. However, public awareness of these services is limited. As we navigate post-pandemic recovery, libraries can serve as platforms for community engagement, fostering resilience, mental health support and reducing social isolation. Recognising libraries’ untapped potential can lead to healthier communities and improved wellbeing.

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Section: Comparison With Existing Literaturesupporting

confidence: 53%

Public libraries to promote public health and wellbeing: a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling adults

Karki,

El Asmar,

Sasco

et al. 2024

BMC Public Health

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“…They have introduced valuable avenues for electronic documentation, resulting in the publication of numerous virtual materials such as reports from the General Statistics Department and financial department summaries in institutions (Komlodi, A, 2004). They have offered access to books that may otherwise be challenging to obtain, particularly when physical copies are scarce or financially unattainable (Hider, P., Garner, 2023).…”

Section: Source: the Authormentioning

confidence: 99%

The Role of Virtual Libraries in the Contemporary World an Analytical Study

Jalamneh

2024

Intl. J. Rel.

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Virtual libraries play a crucial role in the development of libraries and information profession, as well as the advancement of working methods and service levels in cultural institutions such as museums and archives. These libraries are a global phenomenon resulting from the information and communications technology revolution, facilitated by the World Wide Web. Furthermore, virtual libraries are not just a cultural, educational, and scientific necessity, but also serve as a vital means of providing accurate and relevant information to users. This study aims to address the impact of artificial intelligence technology on the operations of libraries and documentation centers. Through examples of its implementation in libraries, study explore how these technologies can enhance the provision of information. Additionally, the study discusses the current state and challenges faced by virtual libraries, while elucidating their key features and user utilization.

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“…The importance of public libraries' physical spaces has been highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many users expressing how much they have missed visiting their local libraries, even when online and 'click and collect' alternatives were available to them (Garner et al 2021;Wakeling et al 2021). A recent study indicated that these spaces were missed for a wide range of reasons, and at different levels: users missed various aspects of the atmosphere, library resources, as well as the numerous activities that they would otherwise have been doing in their libraries (Hider et al, 2022b). This suggests that the design of these physical spaces is also important, and that the often-keen sentiments users have about 'their' spaces should be given very careful consideration in the design process.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%