‘It´s Not A one-size-fits-all, I Think’: A Qualitative Study of Library Professionals´ Perceptions of Public Library Roles

ABSTRACT The public library professionals’ views of the value of public library roles are examined. Differences and similarities are analyzed to provide knowledge on current perceptions and to enhance our knowledge of public library value concepts. Based on the findings from reviews of literature exploring value, the participants were asked to categorize the value of public libraries. The study applies the initial step of consensus studies. Amongst the similarities and differences identified, findings show what the individual perceptions of value amongst public library professionals potentially mean to the development of public library services, and thereby also to the delivery of value.