Helsinki, Finland: Finland’s library democracy efforts are drawing attention as public libraries expand beyond books into civic spaces, digital help desks and shared equipment hubs.
Finland, whose capital is Helsinki, has more than 700 libraries for 5.6 million people, according to the source report.
At Oodi Central Library in Helsinki, visitors use meeting rooms, music pods, sewing machines, games and study spaces. Library users can also borrow items such as sports equipment and pool passes.
Katri Vänttinen, Helsinki’s director of library services, said people enter Oodi at opening time and head straight to their preferred spaces. She said the rush shows the library belongs to the public.
The Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture says the Public Libraries Act promotes active citizenship, democracy and lifelong learning.
Noora Hirvonen, professor of information studies at the University of Oulu, said libraries give people access to knowledge, public debate and shared space regardless of income or background.
The source report said 55% of Finns visit libraries at least once a month. Ministry data cited in the report said Finns use libraries 9.1 times a year.
In Oulu, the refurbished Saari central library offers tools such as a sewing machine, 3D printer, heat press and laser cutter.
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Library clerk Chris Stephenson said UK closures showed how communities lose important public spaces.
Finnish libraries also provide digital support. Staff help users access tax services, bank accounts, pensions, health records, CVs and job applications.
Sitra, the Finnish innovation fund, has used libraries for community discussions linking citizens with politicians and public institutions, according to the source report.
