The four spaces - a new model for the public library

摘要

Purpose - The aim of this paper is to present a model for the public library created by the authors. Design/methodology/approach - The paper is divided into three parts. The first part emphasizes considerations regarding today's focus on both the virtual and the physical library. The second part describes the four-space model, including examples of libraries as illustrations of the different spaces and examples of how the model is being used in the Nordic library-world. The third part pinpoints some critical questions in relation to the model. Findings - The paper shows how the four-space model has been used in different ways in the Nordic countries since it was presented for the first time in a Danish report on public libraries in 2010. Practical implications - The four-space model can be a useful tool in relation to developing, building, designing, arranging and rearranging public libraries. Furthermore the model can be a tool for management and communication in connection with library plans and policy and not least a point of departure for the discussion of the public library's overall role in society. Originality/value - This is the first time that the space model is presented to the library world outside the Nordic countries in a way where examples, usability and limitations are included.