Creating Social Spaces: How Libraries Serve as the Heart of Communities

Though Albert Einstein is often credited with saying, “The only thing you need to know is the location of the library,” the sentiment holds true. Libraries have evolved beyond being mere repositories for books; they now serve as dynamic public spaces that address a wide range of community needs.

A 2023 report by the Canadian Urban Institute highlights how libraries, situated at the heart of communities, provide unique services that no other institution can offer. On any given day, a library might function as a cultural hub, a refuge for those in crisis, a job search facility, or even a community health clinic. Increasingly, libraries are also recognised as “third places“—a concept coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg. These are social spaces that differ from home (the “first place”) and work (the “second place”), where people gather to relax, interact, and connect informally in a welcoming environment.

LibrarIN: Redefining Public Service in Libraries

The LibrarIN project is taking this idea further by exploring a new model of public service and social innovation in libraries. The project team is studying how libraries can shift from traditional top-down service models to demand-driven, bottom-up approaches. In this new model, citizens, civil servants, and organisations from both the private and third sectors are encouraged to co-create innovative services that address evolving community needs and social challenges. By involving diverse stakeholders in the library service delivery process, LibrarIN aims to foster transformative strategies that can strengthen the role of libraries as active community hubs.

Designing the Third Place

To strengthen their role as third places, library design should focus on creating spaces that encourage social engagement, lifelong learning, and a sense of belonging. Some key design elements include:

  • Flexible Spaces: Libraries should offer various zones for different activities, from quiet study areas to collaborative workspaces, informal gathering spots, and event spaces. Flexible furniture and movable partitions enable easy reconfiguration, making the library adaptable to the community’s changing needs.
  • Comfortable Seating: Cosy seating options, such as lounge chairs, bean bags, and modular furniture, invite visitors to stay longer and engage with others, fostering a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Café or Coffee Shop: Integrating a café into the library creates a relaxed, social space where people can meet, work, or enjoy refreshments, contributing to the library’s appeal as a third place for community interaction.
  • Technology Integration: Incorporating technology hubs with high-speed internet, charging stations, and computer access helps support digital literacy and connection. These areas can also include digital media platforms and encourage both virtual and in-person collaboration.
  • Community Rooms: Multipurpose rooms for workshops, lectures, or community meetings offer valuable spaces for local groups and individuals to share knowledge and skills, strengthening the library’s role as a hub for social learning.
  • Outdoor Spaces: Libraries can also include outdoor areas, such as patios or gardens, where people can relax and socialise in a natural setting. Large windows and natural light can bring elements of the outdoors inside, enhancing the sense of calm and comfort.
  • Art and Culture: Displaying art, exhibitions, and cultural artefacts enriches the library environment and provides opportunities for community members to engage with different forms of creative expression.
  • Inclusivity and Accessibility: Ensuring that libraries are accessible to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds is essential. Design features like ramps, elevators, and assistive technologies make the space welcoming for everyone, reinforcing the library’s inclusive ethos.

Supporting Neurodiverse Patrons

In recent years, libraries have made significant strides in becoming more accommodating for neurodiverse individuals, including those on the autism spectrum. Initiatives such as the “Autism-Ready Libraries Toolkit” guide library staff in creating sensory-friendly environments, offering quiet areas and ensuring clear, accessible pathways. Libraries like the Fort Ben Branch in Indianapolis, specifically designed with neurodiverse patrons in mind, demonstrate how inclusive design can create a more welcoming and supportive space for all members of the community.

A Cornerstone of Community Life

Today, libraries serve as a cornerstone of community life, offering much more than books. They are spaces for connection, learning, and civic engagement. By acting as third places, libraries play a vital role in fostering vibrant, inclusive, and resilient communities. Whoever first said it, the library’s location is certainly something worth knowing.

Source

Creating a third place: Public library design ideas for community engagement