Heritage, Libraries, and Inclusion: A Case Study of Waterford Central City Library

Abstract

Heritage buildings often stand as a reminder of power structures. In urban streetscapes, they can represent particular values and views of the world such as colonial conquest, hegemonic power relations, or social hierarchies. The changing use of some heritage buildings, however, alongside the changing remit of libraries in Ireland, may offer scope for radical acts of inclusion for diverse populations. One such building is considered here, the Waterford Central City Library, originally a Carnegie library, which is situated at the social and cultural centre of the city. This chapter reflects on the changing use of space in iconic buildings, the changing remit of public libraries in Ireland, and the potential of city centre buildings to be diverse spaces which facilitate inclusive community building.

Citation

Flynn, S. (2023), "Heritage, Libraries, and Inclusion: A Case Study of Waterford Central City Library", Flynn, S. and Hayes, R. (Ed.) Urban Planning for the City of the Future, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 77-91. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80455-215-520231005