Abstract

This study aimed to explore the role and strategies of public libraries in responding to regional extinction crises. The research method involved analyzing prior studies from various academic fields and library and information science through a literature review. Additionally, surveys were conducted among public library staff and users in Chungcheongnam-do to gather opinions on awareness and response strategies for regional extinction. The findings revealed diverse cases from multiple fields that could be applied to libraries. Surveys showed that both staff and users shared an awareness of the crisis and agreed on the need for libraries to respond, with regional collaboration strategies being the most necessary. Based on these results, the study proposed the following strategies for public libraries to address regional extinction: 1) enhancing the role of libraries as complex cultural spaces, 2) strengthening ties between libraries and local communities, 3) providing tailored information services by age and social class, 4) enhancing the professionalism of library personnel, 5) promoting libraries and improving awareness of regional extinction, and 6) strengthening the connection between national and local government policies on regional extinction and library policies.