Spatial Dimensions of Cultural Sustainability in University Libraries: A Comparative Assessment

This study aims to examine the spatial dimensions of cultural sustainability in university libraries through a qualitative comparative multiple-case study. Based on cultural sustainability literature, five analytical dimensions were identified: cultural and spatial continuity, spatial characteristics supporting place identity and belonging, collective memory and cultural representation, social and collective use, and cultural adaptability and diversity of use. These dimensions were operationalized through twenty spatial indicators and applied to three cases: the University of Amsterdam University Library, Freie Universität Berlin Philological Library, and Utrecht University Library. The research employed document analysis of architectural drawings, photographs, institutional documents, project descriptions, and academic publications. Each case was examined individually and subsequently compared using a common qualitative assessment framework. The findings indicate that cultural sustainability extends beyond heritage conservation and can be supported through contextual continuity, architectural identity, collective memory, social interaction, adaptive reuse, and spatial diversity under different architectural conditions.