Libraries as felt spaces: Atmospheres, public space and feelings of dis/comfort

Abstract

This paper contributes to debates on urban atmospheres by delving into the atmospheric and emotional qualities of public libraries, highlighting the importance of their atmospheric dimensions as micro urban spaces in shaping city life. Geographic research into public libraries is growing, stressing their importance as key spaces of sociality in fragmented cities. However, less is known regarding their role as vital settings of atmospheric experiences and shared emotions. Situated within a larger project that investigates public libraries as key convivial spaces in stressed urban environments, this paper presents findings from the micro geographies of three public libraries in Bremen, Germany. It finds that atmospheres of welcome and sociality can foster feelings of being-in-place and belonging in and beyond the library, while also creating feelings of discomfort and unease that people negotiate in often careful ways.