S140: The library as a free space for living, studying, working

Abstract Text: Libraries as intensively used learning places face special challenges these days. To support students holistically in their learning and work, concepts are needed that combine the library's traditional core competencies with innovative services. Because learning is an individual process, very different and sometimes contradictory expectations and needs of users must be recognized and taken into account when developing a learning space.
Libraries are evolving into places of residence. They are learning places and information centers and offer space for work individually and in groups. Customers' needs are different: they want to be "alone but not alone" and want an "atmosphere that promotes concentration, encouragement, contagion", in which it is possible to "stimulate space and concentrated separation" at the same time. In Macedonia, too, libraries are increasingly oriented towards the international development of libraries as "teaching libraries", which transfer information and media skills far beyond conventional user training. The role of the library will increasingly be that of the so-called "third place", which, in addition to our home ("first place") and workplace ("second place"), will be of greater importance for the functioning of a society. "Third places" offer everyone the opportunity to spend time with others in an unrelated way, for no apparent or obvious reason. Libraries are destined for this. The project Young St. Clement's University in NUL "St. Clement Ohridski" - Skopje, is an example of developing certain skills among users, using traditional sources, go beyond the everyday, stimulate their creativity and expand opportunities in many areas of living.
Keywords: place to study, teaching library, free space, Young St. Clement's University