Äldre användare på Stockholms stadsbibliotek : en nutida kvalitativ intervjustudie

Sammanfattning: The aim of this study is to gain deeper understanding of how older patrons (65 years of age and above) experien- ce the Stockholm Public Library: how the older patrons use the library, experience information about events and programs; experiences in contact with librarians; how user-friendly they find the library and what might attract or detract visits. The study consists of qualitative interviews with five older patrons of the Stockholm Public Lib- rary who were approached during a library visit. The study also contains interviews with two librarians from the library. The interviews have been transcribed and the results are organized into six areas: using the library and its services; digital aspects of the library; contact with librarians; the library space in a user-friendly context; the cultural value of the library building; library programmes; events and programs. The theoretical framework of the study is that of sociologist and philosopher Zygmunt Bauman and his ide- as about the individualised society and consumerism. Bauman's thoughts on the individualised society where on- ly the desired consumers are welcome even in public spaces have also been included. These theories are combi- ned with research on how society views aging and older people, international studies and studies on older pa- trons and libraries in Sweden. This study finds that a main issue in accessing the library's services and material is how they are placed: shelves that are too high or low to reach, and problems with finding material without help. The patrons are drawn to places where books are exposed, whether on purpose or not. The study concludes with the suggestion of crea- ting national guidelines for how libraries can make their spaces more welcoming to older patrons, such as ex- isting guidelines in the U.S. And Australia. Previous research shows the mere existance of guidelines may high- light the issue in itself and create a helpful start for libraries wanting to accommodate older patrons better.