Abstract
Public libraries are a cornerstone of society. Not only do libraries provide free access to books and literature, but they also foster a physical space that allows people to connect and gain new knowledge. This thesis explores how public libraries are a crucial form of social infrastructure. Furthermore, libraries are a place for people to connect and ultimately gain social and cultural capital. This project was grounded in sociological theory and aims to reflect how public libraries contribute to and benefit society. Qualitative data was collected through four semi-structured interviews with staff members at the Waltham Public Library and 20 Waltham Public Library patron surveys. This research finds that public libraries have a widely positive impact on society as a form of social infrastructure, where people of all backgrounds can indulge in the slew of free resources. The interview and survey data highlighted how people can use the space in the way that best fits their lifestyle, which ranges from language learning classes to borrowing a gardening kit. Additionally, this thesis also examines the important anti-capitalist structure of public libraries as an emergent finding. The anti-capitalist framework of libraries reaffirms how this public space can be a gateway to accessing new resources and services. This research concludes that public libraries as a form of social infrastructure greatly contribute to society by providing a space where people can connect socially, utilize various resources, and resist capitalist structures.