Public libraries as culture centers, part 2

Public libraries generally have strong support as public cultural institutions. In todays changing media landscape the role that they play are challenged. Previously a number of projects were run in Region Skåne with the aim of developing libraries into cultural centres in dialog with the local community. This is a study were two of them are followed after the project time is over.

Region Skåne has supported projects with the goal of developing public libraries into cultural centres in dialogue with the local community. In an earlier study projects at three public libraries were followed. In the present study the continuing work is followed at two of the libraries: the libraries in Arlöv and in Ängelholm.

In the projects the libraries developped ways of implementing strategies for strengthening their role in and connection to the local community by formulating themselves as culture centers. In Arlöv a reference group of users were formed to give input concerning the programs at the library. In Ängelholm a much needed renovation of the library was paired with new partnerships with for example Kulturskolan and external partners in what is called a Kulturstråk.

In the present study the continuing work once the projects were over are followed. In what ways do the newly won experiences influence and change the everyday work at the libraries? Hereby knowledge are gained about how development and change may appear over a long strech of time and from different view-points.

Participant observations, conversations and interviews will be used in the study.