• Stories Not Statistics: A Qualitative Narrative Exploration of the Value of Public Libraries in the United Kingdom

    Author(s):
    David Bawden, Sam Dodd (see profile)
    Date:
    2023
    Group(s):
    CityLIS
    Subject(s):
    Library science, Information science, Narrative inquiry (Research method), Public libraries
    Item Type:
    Article
    Tag(s):
    Autoethnography
    Permanent URL:
    https://doi.org/10.17613/tke1-d422
    Abstract:
    This study investigates the value of the public library service, and library buildings in particular, in qualitative terms, with a focus on how the public library can address issues of loneliness and belonging. A qualitative narrative approach is taken, to develop 'library stories' and provide a deeper understanding which complements quantitative studies and library statistics. A three-stage research approach is taken: an initial literature analysis to identify issues and themes, leads to a directed content analysis of some of this material to generate micro-narratives, which are complemented by an evocative autoethnography. Interrelated connections emerge concerning where our bodies belong, and vulnerable and marginalised users; and new types of knowledges are identified. This is a novel combination of methods for library/information research, with the potential to highlight in new ways the value of library services and buildings. The study deals with UK public libraries between 2000 and 2021.
    Notes:
    Accepted for publication in an upcoming edition of The Library Quarterly.
    Metadata:
    Published as:
    Journal article    
    Status:
    Published
    Last Updated:
    2 months ago
    License:
    Attribution-ShareAlike
    Share this:

    Downloads

    Item Name: docx tlq-revision-2-final.docx
      Download
    Activity: Downloads: 35