If You Feel Lonely or Isolated, Your Local Library can be the “Third Place” in Your Life
A place you can linger.
A life without a third place is a life of loneliness and isolation. A life that exists only to work. Go home. Go to work. Go home. Go to work. Where does it end? It ends with a third place. Kieran McCrae Better Humans — Medium
The eight characteristics of a third place as described by Oldenburg are beautifully matched with your public library.
They are neutral ground and there is no obligation to stay or go: Public Libraries provide multiple experiences for anyone who wishes to enter. You can borrow anything from a bicycle to a book, toy or magazine, say hi to the regular staff member on your way through or stay in a comfortable chair using the wi-fi, reading or engaging in the many passive activities they might offer such as communal jigsaw puzzles.
They are levellers; that is, there is a sense that social status does not matter in this space: Public Libraries welcome everyone. This can be uncomfortable for some in the community but entering a public library means entering the new town square. You can meet a teenager, someone from a different culture or religion, a rainbow family or your new friend as you join that conversation group, book club or maker community. Being open to new social experiences around you can re-connect you to the community if you have become isolated and alone.
The main activity in the space is conversation: I would say the main activity in a public library is active learning which does mean there is a buzz of conversation throughout the library spaces. In addition to social areas, libraries often provide quiet spaces for those seeking solitude and reflection. This balance between social interaction and personal space allows community members to tailor their library experience to their emotional and psychological needs. And if you do have an interest in learning a language, a craft, or sharing what you are reading there is always a group to join and meet new locals who share your curiosity and passion. Libraries are also providing a place for healthy outdoor activities and might be the place to join a walking group, do a yoga session or garden in the community gardens surrounding the library if that is your thing.
These spaces are accessible and accommodating: Public libraries are open long hours and provide accessible opportunities to linger. Want a comfortable armchair or reading nook — there will be one. Need a table & chair and power & wi-fi for you and your device to set up for the day — there will be multiple options. Often there is also a cafe with reasonably priced coffee & a hum of activity around to provide that intermittent social connection you need every day. Public libraries are also committed to accessibility, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate and utilize library resources including navigating our digital spaces and websites. This commitment to inclusivity reinforces the idea that the library is a space for everyone, contributing to a sense of belonging for all.
They have regulars who set the mood of the place: This is definitely true for public libraries. Public libraries have regular activities which attract regulars who come at that time on that day. It is easy for you to become a regular too — the staff will get to know your name, your interests and you will get to know them too. The nature of libraries as safe places also means it is okay to say hello and nod to the regular as you start to recognise each other, building your social connections over time, even if the regulars are from different cultures, backgrounds or ages.
Third places have a low profile; they are not pretentious or ostentatious: Public libraries can be taken for granted by their communities — but they need to be well-used if they are to be well-funded. Some Public library buildings are architectural wonders which attract interest and visits but they have to have welcoming spaces and experiences if people are to linger. And the best ones do — even those that are not architecturally wonderful are often homely and welcoming because of the community and staff who are in them.
They are rather playful in nature: Public library staff provide the playful culture in all the libraries I have worked in. While we can be a bit earnest in our defense and advocacy of the importance of the role of public libraries in the community there is always a bit of fun happening in the library. Storytime, gaming, Library Takeover nights, Maker activities, chess, and many other experiences in a library are playful and full of joy.
They provide a level of belonging that feels like a home away from home: Librarians and library staff are pivotal in making patrons feel welcome. Their helpfulness, approachability, and knowledge contribute to a supportive environment. Regular visitors may develop personal connections with staff members, enhancing the feeling of familiarity. Libraries are designed to be comfortable and inviting, with cozy seating arrangements, warm lighting, and a calm ambiance. This atmosphere encourages patrons to relax and spend extended periods, making the library feel like a second home.
So I will meet you at the library — the third community space connecting all those who enter their doors — to each other, to ideas and to opportunity.
