The multifaceted role of public libraries
In an era defined by digital breakthroughs and shifting societal needs, libraries have transcended their traditional role as mere repositories of books. Once seen as quiet sanctuaries for reading, they have been reinventing themselves as dynamic, multifaceted institutions playing multiple important roles in our societies. Today’s libraries are not just about books – they are about people, communities and innovation. They are open to everyone. While they remain steadfast champions of literacy, preserving and disseminating knowledge, they have transformed into vibrant hubs offering a wide range of services and resources, as well as spaces for learning, creativity and social interaction. They also foster democratic ideals and citizen involvement, cherish culture, preserve heritage and enrich local community life. Although public libraries continue to serve as the cultural and social bedrock of our communities, they face challenges due to lack of funding and resources and often limited capacity to meet the changing needs of an increasingly digital world. Yet, their resilience lies in their ability to evolve. If libraries are to continue to play their new role, they must have the resources, technology and support they need to attract new users and offer new services. These elements are crucial for their survival. This Synergy Info Pack introduces 14 EU-funded projects that highlight the novel and multifaceted role of public libraries. Whether funded by Creative Europe, Horizon Europe, ERASMUS+ or the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF), each of the featured projects strengthens the role of the modern library in Europe today. Chapter 1 presents projects which transform libraries into inclusive spaces, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, people speaking different languages, having different needs and abilities. Chapter 2 showcases three projects which bolster libraries’ position as bastions of democratic ideals and citizen engagement, contributing to third-country nationals’ integration into local communities, empowering Europe’s citizen science community and nurturing cross-cultural conversations. Chapter 3 turns towards the future, exploring how libraries can maintain their mission of fostering a love of reading and learning, while also evolving to better engage with the people, organisations and communities they serve. The six projects featured in this section provide an answer. Together, the projects featured in this Synergy Info Pack provide an insight to the next chapter of Europe’s public libraries – a chapter that will see these institutions transition into places where everybody can access technology, engage in educational programmes, celebrate culture and learn with each other. Libraries are more than buildings; they are living, breathing institutions. Their story is not one of decline, but of reinvention – a testament to the enduring human need for connection, learning and shared spaces.