Peruskirjastoa

Peruskirjastoa is the partitive form of the Finnish noun peruskirjasto, literally “basic library.” In public library discourse, peruskirjasto refers to the concept of a core or foundational library service that should be available to all residents. The term encompasses both the basic collection and the essential services that libraries are expected to provide, such as lending, information and reference help, digital access, and guidance for learning and literacy. The precise scope of a “basic library” can vary by municipality and policy, but it generally denotes a minimum standard for public library services that supports lifelong learning and equal access to information.

In policy and planning contexts, peruskirjasto is used when discussing how libraries cover fundamental needs, how funds are allocated, and how services are organized across a region. It can also appear in discussions about regional library networks and the role of specialized or regional libraries in supporting smaller local libraries.

Grammar and usage: peruskirjastoa is the partitive form used when the noun is the object of a verb or of a preposition that requires partitive. For example: “tarvitsemme peruskirjastoa” (we need a basic library) or “peruskirjastoa koskevat velvoitteet” (the obligations concerning the basic library).

See also: Finnish public library system; Kirjastolaki (Library Act); regional libraries in Finland.