The aim of this thesis is to examine how library users who chose to not borrow any material from the collection look at their use of the library as well as their reasons for not borrowing any material. This thesis also discusses who the non-borrowing users are in a societal context.

The theoretical framework is based on sociological theories regarding the public sphere and Bourdieus concept of capital. Concepts which have been expanded and applied in other research regarding library and information studies which this thesis explores. It also explores the library as a place both in architectural and social sense. Another concept which is introduced is the concept of the library as a high and low intensive meeting place. 

In this study I chose a qualitative approach. The methods consist of semi structured interviews that I conducted and analyzed. The findings show that non-borrowing library users have a lot of things in common regarding the reason for visiting the library. But at the same time their usage of the library space varies a lot. This thesis shows the importance of the library as a public space for users. Both as a place to relax and escape from the ongoings of modern life as well as a place to learn and socialize. Answering the question regarding which patrons are non-borrowing users can not easily be answered. In this study the findings show that the non-borrowing users are within a certain age range and social group.