Public Libraries as Third Places: Computer Usage Patterns of a German Public Library System

Public access computers have become a standard part of public library service provision. While extensive qualitative and survey studies have examined how library visitors (patrons) use these computers, very little is known about how this is reflected in the actual public library computer access logs. We analysed general usage and internet access patterns for all 17 computers of German city ANONCITY’s library system, for which we also had survey data from the European Sentobib study. These logs included internet access, printing, app use, and file up- or downloads. We found that the key value proposition of public library computers was to offer access to technology in the comfort of a home away from home and discuss the implications for designing public library technology spaces.