Public means people. So some call it public library or general library. As the name suggests, this type of library is for the general public. A review of the history of libraries shows that the Greeks established the first public library in the capital city of Athens in 33 BC.
A public library is an organization that is established, supported, and funded by the community, whether through local, regional, provincial, or national government, or through other forms of community organization.
Among the various types of libraries, the role and scope of public libraries are very extensive. UNESCO, in its 1994 Library Manifesto, has called public libraries “the precondition and fruit of democracy” and “the University of the People”. While giving the definition of a public library, it is said – “The public library shall be established and managed by the people, for the people, as a democratic institution, in accordance with the law, and shall be supported wholly or mainly by public funds, and all classes of the people shall have the right to use it on this legal basis.”
In 1971, a Recharge Group of the Library Association of England published a report on public libraries. The definition of a library given there is as follows –
“The purpose of the public library is to improve all educational, economic, industrial, scientific and cultural aspects of human life and to work for the development of democracy in a democratic society in which every person has equal opportunities to become a full citizen with full personality”. Its function is also to increase the overall life opportunities of the person and to make him aware of himself, his neighbors and the environment.
Public libraries provide access to knowledge, information, and imaginative works through a variety of resources and services. They are available to all members of the community, regardless of race, nationality, age, gender, religion, language, disability, economic status, employment status, or educational attainment.
There are two prominent types of public libraries that play vital roles in serving communities:
1. Community Library
A community library is a cherished resource tailored to meet the needs of a specific neighborhood or group. For instance, a library nestled in a coastal town may cater to the unique interests of the local fishing community, becoming a hub for shared knowledge and cultural exchange. These small, inviting spaces foster a sense of belonging and encourage residents to engage with literature, programs, and each other, enriching the tapestry of local life.
2. Mobile Library
In contrast, the mobile library brings the joy of reading directly to those in remote areas, bridging the gap for communities lacking permanent library buildings. This innovative vehicle is outfitted with shelves brimming with books, ready to roll into neighborhoods where eager readers await. When parked, the mobile library transforms into a welcoming space, allowing residents of villages and city outskirts to easily access a world of stories and information. Its travels not only distribute knowledge but also create connections, fostering a love for literature in every stop it makes.
Beyond these two main types, public libraries can also be categorized based on the population they serve. Examples include rural libraries, village libraries, town libraries, and city libraries, each adapting to the specific needs of their respective communities.
Core characteristics of Public libraries
Public libraries are defined by five core characteristics that ensure they remain vital resources for everyone:
1. Accessibility: Public libraries are open to all, welcoming every member of the community to explore their extensive collections without restriction.
2. Governance: Each public library operates under the guidance of a board dedicated to upholding the interests of the public and ensuring the library serves its community effectively.
3. Voluntary Participation: While they offer valuable services, public libraries maintain a completely voluntary atmosphere—no one is compelled to partake in the resources available.
4. Free Services: Public libraries provide a wealth of information and support and offer their foundational services at no cost, ensuring that everyone can benefit from their offerings.
5. Public Funding: Public libraries thrive thanks to the financial support of local taxes, with contributions potentially coming from various levels of government, solidifying their status as essential community institutions.
In essence, public libraries represent a commitment to fostering knowledge, culture, and community engagement, making them invaluable pillars in society.
The core functions of a Public Library
I. Education & Information
Public libraries serve as vital hubs of knowledge, championing both individual pursuit of informal learning and structured formal education across all levels. They are the community’s treasure trove of information, ensuring that a diverse array of knowledge is easily accessible to all who seek it.
II. Personal Development
These libraries foster personal growth by offering enriching opportunities for creative expression and self-discovery, allowing individuals to embark on their unique journeys of development.
III. Reading Habits
Public libraries play a pivotal role in nurturing a culture of reading, cultivating the reading habits of individuals, communities, and society at large. They inspire a love of literature, bridging gaps and connecting people through the joy of reading.
IV. Cultural Development
Public libraries provide a vibrant focal point for cultural and artistic growth within the community, helping to shape and nourish the cultural identity of the area. They host a variety of programs that celebrate diversity and encourage cultural exchange.
V. Social Needs of the Public
Public libraries are committed to addressing the social needs of their communities, actively developing policies and delivering services that align with the unique demands of local populations. They act as crucial resources in fostering social cohesion and support.
Public libraries offer a range of essential services, including:
I. Reading Hall Facilities
Libraries boast inviting reading halls, designed to provide patrons with tranquil environments where they can immerse themselves in their reading materials, tailored to their personal preferences.
II. Book Borrowing Facilities
These centers facilitate a seamless book borrowing experience, empowering library users to explore new titles and engage with literature from various genres.
III. Internet Access for Library Users
To keep pace with the digital age, public libraries provide internet access and Wi-Fi facilities, ensuring users can access a wealth of online resources. Many libraries also feature small internet cafes or computer rooms for community use.
IV. Document Delivery Services
Libraries offer document delivery services, providing users with articles and other reading materials, effectively catering to the community’s informational needs.
V. Reference Services
Reference services are invaluable, with knowledgeable librarians ready to assist patrons in navigating their queries, guiding them to the information they seek.
VI. Events Organization
Public libraries curate a rich array of events tailored for their diverse users. From enchanting storytelling sessions for children to dynamic book launches and informative seminars, these gatherings cater to the interests and needs of the community.
VII. Services for Special User Groups
Public libraries extend their reach to special user groups such as women, senior citizens, and individuals with special needs or learning disabilities, ensuring that all community members have access to resources and services that cater to their unique requirements.
Additionally, libraries engage in community support services designed to promote reading habits and foster education.
In the context of the above discussion, it can be easily understood that how the public library is different from the special and national libraries in terms of purpose, resources and reader service. It can be easily understood from the reader service of the public library. The public library is for everyone. But the special library is for special readers. And the national library is the carrier of the culture, civilization and heritage of the nation.
