The readings and materials in this week’s module made me question how we can—or should—define a “library.” Merriam-Webster defines “library” as “a place in which literary, musical, artistic, or reference materials (such as books, manuscripts, recordings, or films) are kept for use but not for sale.” After reflecting on the materials in Module 5, this traditional definition feels static, stale, and outdated.

Programs like “Wash & Learn” and bookmobiles challenge the idea that a library is a physical place. A bookmobile in Denmark moves around and stops in 25 places every week (Lauersen, 2025). The Halifax Public Library recently opened a library kiosk at a local airport, clearly not a traditional library physical space (Warner, 2024). Libraries are also reaching out to communities through online or non-physical means, such as through TikTok videos or Instagram posts (Stephens, 2025).

Even within the four walls of a more traditional library space, services provided go beyond merely “keeping for use” books or other reference materials. For example, libraries might employ “photo walls, zines, short videos, [and] shared prompts” within their spaces to build community (Stephens, 2025). Some libraries have organized Conversation Clubs for patrons to connect with each other and find community (Hasan, 2023). These services show that libraries have moved beyond the provision of information and now also create, provide, and sustain communities. Some believe libraries are inherently political spaces, from the books provided in a collection to exhibits curated (Jensen, 2017).

I do like that the definition above references that materials are “kept for use but not for sale.” I think the free, open, and accessible aspect of libraries is key, especially in ensuring equal access to information and services. The recent movement of removing fees or other monetary penalties from libraries seems in line with this definition.

Overall, the libraries seem to have expanded beyond the traditional, physical provision of reference material in one location. As someone looking towards a future in librarianship, this expansion is exciting – our possibilities for how we can build and serve our communities are varied and creative!

References:

Hasan, T. N. (2023, June 27, 2023). Free, non-judgemental, accessible: How your local library is a sanctuary of health and wellness. https://www.sbs.com.au/language/bangla/en/article/free-nonjudgmental-and-accessible-how-your-local-library-is-a-sanctuary-of-health-and-wellness/t15blzsi9

Jensen, K. (2017, February 10). Libraries Resist: A Round-Up of Tolerance, Social Justice, & Resistance in US Libraries. Book Riot. https://bookriot.com/libraries-resist-round-tolerance-social-justice-resistance-us-libraries/

Lauersen, C. (2025, February 5). The necessary nearness – an ode to bookmobiles. https://christianlauersen.net/2025/02/05/the-necessary-nearness-and-ode-to-bookmobiles/

Stephens, M. (2025). Beyond Buzzwords: Ten invitations to build library connection and community. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/f05u6l0d50k8js28vgokz/Beyond-Buzzwords-Ten-Invitations-to-Build-Library-Connection-and-Community.pdf?rlkey=2i1b76g18h9t2qxmq3s1y7q90&st=of4tisuf&e=1&dl=0

Warner, L. (2024, January 17). Three ways that alternative service delivery strategies can meet the challenges of a booming population. https://medium.com/@lauracwarner/revolutionizing-public-libraries-ff7fed3d12c5