The Local Information Landscape in Crisis and War

Preliminary study period: September 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. &nbsp;
External co-funding: Swedish Psychological Defence Agency.

The preliminary study The Local Information Landscape in Crisis and War explores the potential for new research and innovation on how local libraries and news media can strengthen access to verified information and independent journalism during major crises and in the event of war.

The study is based on the premise that libraries have a mandate to serve as so-called information points in crisis situations and that news media are essential "information engines" for independent journalism. In times of crisis and war, access to relevant and accurate information is crucial, and in critical situations, it can be life-saving. Previous research and experiences also show that libraries and media play key roles during times of unrest and dramatic events.

In addition to Media & Democracy, the preliminary study involves collaboration with the Libraries of Borås and Lindängen Library in Malmö, Borås Tidning, and Sydsvenskan. The research perspectives are provided by researchers from the Swedish School of Library and Information Science in Borås and media researchers from Södertörn University in Stockholm. Library development within the Västra Götaland region is also a partner.

"We hope to gain a better understanding of how we as libraries can work during a major crisis in collaboration with independent media to provide facts and journalism, and to counteract disinformation, which has become an increasingly significant challenge in our society."

— Piroska Bakran, Section Head, City of Malmö