Thinking about new ways that libraries can function in our world is endlessly fascinating. Because there are seemingly unlimited possibilities. In Tom Scott’s YouTube video Why Helsinki’s library robots aren’t important, Romeo Pulli, ICT Specialist at Oodi Library in Helsinki, describes the library as “like a living room for citizens” (2019). I absolutely love this way of thinking about the library. It is a place for coming together around the exchange of ideas. In the modern age where information literacy is key to being an informed citizen, the public library provides services to all people.
In her TED talk, Pam Sandlian Smith describes the way in which learning is made playful at the library. She talks about creativity, experimentation, and collaboration for all at the library. Play opens doors to questions that lead to deep thinking. And all of this is in service of building critical thinking skills. “We are the cornerstones of democracy. Everyone has a seat at the table,” says Smith, emphasizing the importance of library services being available to everyone
In my local library, the spaces are being redefined. The Multnomah County voters passed a bond measure in 2020 authorizing $387 million towards capital improvements for the Multnomah County Library (Multnomah County, 2026). These improvements include new Makerspaces at several branches, where patrons can 3D print and laser cut. There is a sensory room at my local branch which offers sound, touch, and visual sensory breaks or stimuli depending on the needs of the user. One of my favorite improvements has been to move the children’s area somewhat apart from the general library, allowing for boisterous and uninhibited play, singing, and dancing. As a mother of a 3-year old and 7-year old, I am always grateful for this space!
Overall, the library is becoming a place for so much more than books. It is a welcoming hub for community, learning, creativity, play, and so much more.
References
Multnomah County. (2026). Library Capital Bond Project Compliance. https://multco.us/info/library-capital-bond-project-compliance
Scott, T. (2019, October 14). Why Helsinki’s library robots aren’t important [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPb9o3uDF_Q
Tedx Talks. (2013, December 16). What to expect from libraries in the 21st century: Pam Sandlian Smith at TEDxMileHigh [Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa6ERdxyYdo