A master thesis from Aalborg University
Eksklusion og inklusion på bibliotekerne
[Exclusion and inclusion within libraries]
Forfatter(e)
Semester
4. semester
Uddannelse
Udgivelsesår
2025
Afleveret
2025-05-26
Antal sider
68 pages
Abstract
Abstract. This thesis explores how the libraries in Vesterbro and Nørrebro generate exclusion and inclusion. The research problem addresses how groups of vulnerable individuals with social problems create a sense of insecurity in the libraries. The theme of social issues in libraries is relevant and timely across libraries throughout Denmark, where various forms of unrest, threats against staff, vandalism, and feelings of insecurity are being experienced. At the Vesterbro and Nørrebro libraries specifically, the City of Copenhagen’s Social Services Administration has established a partnership with the libraries to implement a social outreach initiative aimed at alleviating these social challenges. The thesis uses the case study method to investigate the issue in these specific library settings. Epistemologically, the study is grounded in hermeneutics, which allows for an examination of the individual parts within the whole and enables the researcher to actively use their own knowledge and preunderstanding. Empirical data for the case study is collected through field observations at the libraries at Vesterbro and Nørrebro and interviews with social work professionals. The case study draws on theory from Erving Goffman to analyze behavioral actions taking place within the libraries and how these behaviors affect the library space. It also examines how certain groups are stigmatized through the libraries’ rules and codes of conduct. In addition, the case study incorporates theories from Ole B. Jensen and Carsten Hvid Nielsen, both of whom research exclusionary design in urban spaces. Through their conceptual frameworks, it is possible to analyze the physical spaces and frameworks of the libraries to identify the mechanisms that generate exclusion and inclusion. Both the coding of the empirical material and the analysis itself are structured and grounded thematically. In conclusion, the case study finds that the libraries of Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and Blågården are dynamic and contextually negotiated public spaces, where social interactions, behavioral actions, and physical environments together generate both exclusion and inclusion of different groups of library users. The study also concludes that, due to their public accessibility and embedded rules, the libraries have dual mechanisms that simultaneously generate both exclusion and inclusion.
Emneord
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