Džidić Šejla H., Đelić Svjetlana M.

The Austrian Library in Belgrade: a hub for culture, language, and learning

Section: Ukraine and Austria: science, education, and culture in the modern information space

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to explore the Austrian Library’s activities at the University Library "Svetozar Marković" in Belgrade and to reveal its role as a hub for culture, language, and learning, as well as a platform for intercultural dialogue and skill development. The research methodology applies a case study of the Austrian Library in Belgrade, using general scientific methods (analysis, synthesis, generalization) and a structural-functional approach, grounded in the principles of complexity, systemicity, and scientific objectivity. The scientific novelty lies in the conceptualization of the Austrian Library as a reimagined, community-oriented, culturally embedded, and multidimensional public space that fosters intercultural dialogue, creative engagement, and sustainable cultural cooperation. Conclusions. The analysis of the Austrian Library’s activities, functioning as a special department of the University Library "Svetozar Marković" since 2003, confirms that the promotion of culture, language, and learning has been central to its mission. The library implements a wide range of public initiatives, including language cafés, writing workshops, film nights, literary competitions, exhibitions, and children’s activities. The study highlights that the effective functioning of the Austrian Library as a multidimensional cultural and educational hub is closely linked to the adoption of adaptive service models, the development of strategic partnerships, and the thoughtful design of inclusive public spaces, all of which foster sustainable intercultural interaction and vibrant community development. Thus, the Austrian Library in Belgrade exemplifies the evolving role of libraries as dynamic centers of cultural and educational life, contributing to sustainable international cooperation and the strengthening of intercultural dialogue through innovative and inclusive practices.

Keywords: Austrian Library in Belgrade, special libraries, cultural and educational activities, intercultural dialogue.

  Full-text PDF    https://doi.org/10.15407/bv2025.02.037     Citation

• Džidić Šejla H. (University Library "Svetozar Marković" (Belgrade, Serbia), [email protected]) ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0006-2297-2427
• Đelić Svjetlana M. (University Library "Svetozar Marković" (Belgrade, Serbia), [email protected]) ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6977-3004

Cite:
Džidić Šejla H. (2025). The Austrian Library in Belgrade: a hub for culture, language, and learning. Bibliotechnyi visnyk, (2) 37-41. doi: https://doi.org/10.15407/bv2025.02.037

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