Authors : Dr. Manohar Ramulu Kondagurle

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 1 - January

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/mryezn8v

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/3yxh4h3m

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jan537

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : The concept of the library as a “third place” is becoming increasingly popular in contemporary library and information science discourse especially when it comes to the wellbeing and belonging to a community. In addition to their conventional functions as repositories of information, libraries are evolving into inclusive, non-commercial public spaces that support social interaction, emotional comfort and civic engagement. This review article highlights the importance of libraries as third places in promoting the individual wellbeing and fostering sense of belonging to the community. Using interdisciplinary sources in sociology, psychology, urban studies, and library and information science, the article discusses the theoretical foundation of the third place theory and how it relates to libraries in addition to some of the most important dimensions of wellbeing and social belonging. It examines libraries as physical, social and digital spaces that facilitate mental, emotional and social wellbeing with inclusive spaces, community programming, and user focused services. The study also identifies the role of libraries in social inclusion, cohesion and democratic participation, but it also critically analyses the issues around resource, space, policy and access. Finally, the article locates new trends, gap in research and policy implications, and the necessity to recognize and straitening libraries as wellbeing-oriented third places. The findings of the study on the importance of libraries as crucial community hub that help make societies healthier, more connected, and resilient are emphasized.

Keywords : Libraries as Third Places, Social Belonging, Community Wellbeing, Community Engagement, Social Inclusion.

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