The public library and intersections of houselessness in two small cities of interior British Columbia

This thesis investigates how public libraries presently mitigate intersections of houselessness in two small cities in the southern interior region of British Columbia (B.C.). The research identifies on three main topics relating to intersections of houselessness, small cities, and the public library. The first topic seeks to understand the role of political economic systems (primarily, neoliberalism) as they exacerbate intersections ranging from the toxic opioid supply to housing and privatization, and anthropogenic climate change. The second topic outlines how these intersections and topics function in the small city landscape, broadening the research away from strictly urban environments. Lastly, the topic of the public library places an emphasis on infrastructure, both social and physical, and conceptualizes the public library as more than just a third space, but rather as a lived space. This centers a discussion around public libraries existing in opposition to privatized spaces within neoliberal society. This thesis follows an interdisciplinary research design, using two methodologies ‘content analysis’ and ‘semi structured interviews’ to deliberate five key findings. Content analysis reviewed sources from City Profiles and relevant Institutes, and highlighted key words within their respective discourse on the chosen topics. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten participants from the two sites of study for this thesis – Nelson and Vernon. Outcomes of this thesis position the state of small cities through the changing face of houselessness, urbanization and housing, and community efforts and actions. The findings also explore the function of public libraries as they service to promote inclusivity, safety, community, and harm mitigation. Moreover, this work addresses the role of librarians and library staff alongside challenges and barriers, with outcomes situating relational engagement, training, de-escalation, and skills equipping. Ultimately, these conclusions outline best practices to effectively achieve the overarching argument of the small city public library as a site of resistance. Through this investigation of the public library, we may be better equipped to understand intersections of houselessness in other small cities of B.C. and beyond.