I have been spending a lot of time lately thinking about libraries as community spaces.
This was induced by several factors. The library where I work is in the process of proposing an expansion of the library’s physical space. This has lead me to think about how there are very few places for communities to gather without a commercial purpose. This is especially true in urban environments. The factor that really convinced me to blog about this topic was when a library patron told me that she felt the need to have more interaction with my department including reviews and contributions that are written by patrons for patrons. My reaction to this suggestion was that more patron involvement sounds like a terrific thing. Unfortunately, I’m not so sure that others in the department would feel the same way.
I realize that I have bitten off more than I can chew, and this post will most likely evolve into several posts due to the wide scope of topics covered, so please be ready for more installments as they are posted.
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I like the idea that the patron is taking notice of the library and asking to be able to contribute. I agree-this is a topic that can keep on going for a long time. Library as community place is not a bad thing, isn’t it what it’s supposed to be?