Becoming partners in urban development: A case-study research on the strategic roles of Flemish and Dutch public libraries in the future development of cities

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of public libraries within urban networks aiming for the future development and innovation of cities and how this influences their own strategic plans and decision making

Design/methodology/approach

An explorative case-study design in five Flemish (i.e. Antwerp, Genk, Ghent, Ostend and Roeselare) and four Dutch (i.e. Amsterdam, The Hague, Delft and Roosendaal) public libraries.

Findings

The research results identify one generic strategic role and three specific strategic roles of Flemish and Dutch public libraries. The latter concern the so-called roles of an “urban landmark”, an “area-oriented herald” and a “target group patron”.

Practical implications

This paper provides a unique and interesting overview of alternative strategic roles for public libraries in urban networks aiming for the future development of cities.

Originality/value

It is the only study in Flanders and the Netherlands providing empirical information on the strategic roles of public libraries in urban development

Citation

Vallet, N. (2013), "Becoming partners in urban development: A case-study research on the strategic roles of Flemish and Dutch public libraries in the future development of cities", Library Management, Vol. 34 No. 8/9, pp. 650-663. https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-03-2013-0024