Co-creation of libraries : Public Library of Amsterdam
Community engagement approaches
Most community co-creation projects focus on the creation of artworks or programmes, but at the Public Library of Amsterdam (OBA) a new capital project to develop OBA Next (to open in 2028) includes communities as co-creators of the library more widely. It works with community groups and local thinkers to develop a library model that is socially-engaged, suits the needs of its users, and follows a democratic model to maximise opportunities for inclusion and empowerment. The new plans for the library are still in the making and so its precise shape and model remain to be seen.