Public Library Programming and Events for Overcoming Social Divisions

Abstract

Increasing and persistent social divisions are a global challenge that threaten the stability of our societies and soundness of our democracies. Public libraries can potentially play an ameliorative role in reducing these divisions. Qualitative data analysis of Oslo’s public library system’s (Deichman) programming and events is used to understand how libraries are addressing social divisions in their communities. The findings suggest that a variety of events organized by Deichman directly contribute to overcoming social divisions, especially those related to economic inequalities, sociocultural factors, and the unequal access to digital technologies. Deichman also appears to contribute to overcoming social divisions indirectly through its programing and events related to more traditional library services. The study concludes that Deichman may be a significant player in addressing social divisions. Lastly, the study provides important insights into the role of libraries as social arenas and their ability to foster community resilience, tolerance, and democracy.

Organisational practices and social inclusion: Inclusionary place‐making in the library

“…Moreover, the library is an ideal place to start. Libraries are one of the few public spaces that are free to use and have enormous potential to help the marginalised navigate all manner of bureaucracies and participate in the wider community (Igarashi et al, 2023; Vårheim, 2014). Yet, in order to serve such a function, libraries themselves must be inclusive, and this underscores the importance of exploring such processes of self‐reflection in this particular setting.…”

“…Furthermore, in an era of public funding cuts, libraries have increasingly taken on a function in signposting people to social, health, and welfare services and fostering civic engagement and participation (Davidson, 2019(Davidson, , 2020Scott, 2011aScott, , 2011b. More generally, to the degree libraries are inclusive, they can facilitate intergroup contact across different demographics (Igarashi et al, 2023;Johnston, 2019;Wiesel & Bigby, 2016), building trust and social cohesion (Appleton et al, 2018;Johnson, 2012;Vårheim, 2007Vårheim, , 2011Vårheim, , 2014. Public libraries across many industrialised countries have developed strategies promoting inclusive practice and the Scottish public library service is no exception (Scottish Library & Information Council, n.d.).…”