Samhällsinformation i Göteborg : en jämförande studie av förmedlare av samhällsinformation

Abstract

The aim of this master's thesis is a comparative study on units for civic information in Göteborg. The study is based on a project currently in progress at the main public library in Göteborg. It is observed that according to the library's mission statement the library aims to become the most competent intermediary of civic information in Göteborg. This statement suggests a competitive strategy towards other intermediaries of civic information. The mission statement does, however, also state that their goal is to be obtained in cooperation with other intermediaries. Thus, we will study how four public service units for civic information in Göteborg operate. These are then compared to the department of civic information at the main public library. Five areas are considered: 1) the definition of the concept of civic information, 2) mission statements, 3) target groups and users, 4) service offered, 5) personnel qualifications and accessibility of the information unit. The study is based on interviews with representatives at the different units. We conclude that for citizens to be informed, individual activity in acquiring information is necessary. Also, one service unit for civic information rarely offers the full range of the civic information. Consequently, there is a need for a number of information units. Each unit may have their own profile and thereby fill different needs. Thus, in order to provide the citizens of Göteborg with the best service possible, we find that cooperation between public service units for civic information is preferred to competition.