Libraries as ‘everyday’ settings: the GlasgowMCISSproject

Abstract

A settings-based approach is now well-established in health promotion, initially undertaken in conventional places like schools and workplaces but more recently being expressed in a wider range of what Torp et al call 'everyday' settings (e.g. care homes, sports stadia and shopping malls). In this context, libraries have emerged as another potential setting whose ubiquity and accessibility suggests that they may be particularly effective in addressing health inequalities. Drawing on a case study -the Glasgow Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Services Library project -this paper reports on the potential for seeing 'libraries as settings' and in the context of a set of associated theoretical resources, specifically scrutinises the nature of initiative implementation. Data was draw from multiple sources: semi-structured interviews and focus groups with strategic partners and stakeholders, operational staff, project volunteers, service users and members of the general public. Qualitative data was complemented by quantitative insights from surveys with members of the partnership, libraries staff and volunteers. Despite some concerns associated with potentially hostile cultural and financial contexts that might threaten longer term sustainability, insights suggested that in pragmatic terms, the project was attracting sizable 'footfall' and successfully addressing a range of needs. Additionally, the formal implementation processes associated with project implementation were considered to have been highly successful in embedding the model into the library culture. In summary, there is evidence that libraries have the potential to be considered as supportive settings and could act as a model for an emergent vision of what libraries do.

Settings for the development of health literacy: A conceptual review

“…The emphasis on “traditional” settings for health—“healthy cities; health promoting schools; healthy workplaces; healthy islands; health promoting hospitals; health promoting prisons and health promoting universities” ( 4 ) (p. 30)—can circumscribe applications of the settings-based approach. This selectivity is beginning to change with the induction of non-traditional settings, such as healthy stadia and airports, into the evidence base, “some through formalized initiatives led by the WHO and other bodies, others emerging through pilot studies and projects” ( 33 ) (p. 12); the public library is an ongoing example of the latter route ( 18 , 21 , 29 ).…”

“…The supersetting approach can be linked with the settings concept of “projectism” ( 31 ) (p. 200), i.e., when “the theoretical framework guiding the work may be rooted in systems thinking and organizational development,” but practice is “constrained to smaller-scale project-focused work around particular issues” ( 60 ) (p. 56). Projectism is not incompatible with a comprehensive settings approach if the project—e.g., library-based health initiatives organized with partners—model “an inclusive and participative ethic” and “dynamic orientation” ( 21 ) (p. 893) commensurate with the supersetting approach.…”

Physical activity promotion in care homes

“…In relation to the recent emergence of the application of a formal 'settings approach' to a wider range of possibilities (Whitelaw et al, 2016), this innovative initiative aspires to transform the very nature of the care home 'setting', making it more conducive to PA. LM therefore recognises CH staff as a key resource in fulfilling increases in PA levels and the project looks to unlock this potential; providing a free and simple training workshop to CH staff giving them "the basic knowledge; confidence and competence to deliver activities that are fun, inclusive and safe" within their own setting" (D&G Council, 2017). The training is ultimately aimed at inspiring staff to get residents to move more often -stimulating discussion about how PA can be adapted within the setting and providing an element of variety through the practical demonstration of different games and activities.…”