Public library events with spaces and collections: Case analysis of the Helsinki Central Library Oodi

Abstract

In recent years, programmes and events have become one of the major services of public libraries. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive and detailed investigation of the types of programmes and events that occur in modern public libraries that provide new services, in addition to traditional services such as book lending. The Helsinki Central Library Oodi (Finland) was used as a case study and data posted on their webpage was collected for analysis. In Finland, as per the Library Act of 2017, public libraries are encouraged to hold programmes and events. Accordingly, various programmes and events are held at Oodi. A total of 1,330 events (excluding duplicates) took place between 13 August 2019 and 31 October 2020 and were coded using the open coding method and grouped into categories. Oodi provided users with many types of learning and experience opportunities through programmes and events, aiming to eliminate social disparities and ensure equality among citizens. Many programmes and events were held to provide citizens with a place for social interaction and dialogue, creating connections among them. The library’s traditional resource, that is, its collection, was central to many programmes and events. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the library has been contributing to the community by holding programmes and events online. This study is the first to comprehensively elucidate the contents of programmes and events held in a modern public library, which is expected to contribute to the further dissemination and development of these types of programmes and events. Furthermore, this study promotes research on specific programmes and events and encourage discussion regarding the linkages between events.