On December 11, the Panevėžys County Gabrielė Petkevičaitė-Bitė Public Library officially opened its Community Space.
Inspired by international experience gained through Erasmus+ projects since 2015, the library has been purposefully transforming its role from a traditional library into an open community hub. Visits to community-oriented libraries across Europe strengthened the understanding that meaningful public spaces are built not only through investment, but through openness, trust, and collaboration.
Since spring 2025, the library has worked closely with local communities, including NGOs, organisations of people with disabilities, library clubs, seniors, and educational institutions. Through meetings and discussions, a shared vision for the Community Space was developed, based on real needs and inclusive principles.
The space was redesigned to be light, flexible, and welcoming. Without reducing the collection, shelving was reorganised to open up the area, creating workstations, quiet relaxation zones, and cosy meeting spots. Accessibility was improved, new furniture and a piano were added, and one staff office was converted into a room for community use.
The Community Space encourages independence and participation: visitors can reserve the space, organise activities, rearrange furniture, and contribute ideas for further development. The goal is to create a living place where people feel welcome, engaged, and motivated to return.
Through this initiative, the library has become more than a place for books – it is a shared space for people, ideas, and growing community connections.
Photos by Rita Raziūnaitė, text by Virginija Švedienė
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