Public Libraries and Social Capital: A Scoping Review

While public libraries are recognised for promoting social capital, how they most effectively achieve this remains unclear. This scoping review examined library and information science literature from 2000 to 2024 to map current knowledge on libraries’ role in building social capital. A search across four databases identified more than 600 articles, with 33 studies included after screening. Data were extracted on study populations, geographic focus, research methods, and findings. Over half of the studies investigated refugees, immigrants, and diverse community groups, with most collecting data from library users. Research was concentrated in the United States and Norway, largely in metropolitan contexts. Methodologies varied but were predominantly qualitative, with interviews the most common approach. Findings show that public libraries foster social capital in multiple ways: providing inclusive spaces, mediating cultural and social bridging, supporting lifelong learning, serving as resource and information hubs, and coordinating community initiatives. However, gaps remain in understanding their long-term and systemic impact. Future research is needed across varied library contexts, with broader assessments of community effects and integrated multi-level analyses. Such work is vital to strengthen evidence-based policy and enhance libraries’ capacity to build social connections.