New Perspectives in Science Education
The Role of Public Libraries in Bulgaria as Partners in Addiction Education and Prevention
Radoslav Hristov, University of Library Studies and Information Technologies (ULSIT) (Bulgaria)
Tania Todorova, University of Library Studies and Information Technologies, Sofia (Bulgaria)
Abstract
Exploring unconventional settings for health promotion and prevention is important for advancing community-based approaches. Given their educational, informational, and social functions, libraries can serve as valuable settings for such activities [1]. Libraries can realize this potential through health-related services and community programs developed in cooperation with local partners and informed by their expertise [2]. Addiction prevention warrants particular attention as a significant public health concern. Addressing this issue aligns with both community interests and the broader mission of public libraries [3]. This study examines the involvement of Bulgaria’s regional libraries in preventing drug use, alcohol consumption, smoking, vaping, gambling, and digital addiction. It analyzes documented activities from June 2013 to June 2026 across all 27 regional libraries in the country. Conducted in June-July 2026, the study combines qualitative and quantitative content analysis, synthesis, and a literature review. The study systematically examined official library websites and Facebook pages using predefined keywords and internal, AI-assisted, and site-specific Google searches. The analysis identifies the main preventive practices, their predominant level – universal, selective, or indicative – and the organizations most frequently involved as partners. The findings highlight the potential of regional libraries, through their diverse functions, activity formats, and community partnerships, to play a significant role in addiction prevention.
Keywords: Public libraries, prevention, addictions, substance abuse, Bulgaria
References:
[1] Banas, J. R., Oh, M. J., Willard, R., & Dunn, J. (2020). A public health approach to uncovering the health-related needs of teen library patrons. The Journal of Research on Libraries and Young Adults, 11(1). https://neiudc.neiu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1009&context=hpera-pub
[2] Fleary, S. A., Joseph, P. L., Rastogi, S., Fenton, T., & Srivastava, V. (2024). A Study on How Libraries Operate as Health Spaces in the United States. Journal of Community Health, 50(2), 317-334. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10900-024-01403-z
[3] Grove, C. (2020). Libraries and the substance abuse crisis: Supporting your community. American Library Association. https://doi.org/10.1080/24750158.2021.1955837
