A Study of User Attitudes towards the Changed Cultural Landscape Case Study: Pridi Banomyong Library, Thammasat University Tha Prachan

Abstract

The concept of Cultural Landscape serves as a vital framework in spatial management, enhancing destination identity while preserving cultural authenticity. Within the context of higher education, The Pridi Banomyong Library at Thammasat University Tha Prachan represents a hybrid cultural landscape that embodies both Historic Site and Ethnographic Landscape characteristics. This space reflects architectural and historical significance as well as the democratic ideology known as the “Spirit of TU”.

In recent years, the library has undergone considerable physical and functional transformation toward the “Library for Life” model, introducing modern service areas, activity zones and multi-use learning spaces. While these changes address contemporary user needs, they also raise questions regarding the continuity of cultural values and institutional identity within the transformed environment.

This study employed a quantitative research approach using an online questionnaire distributed to 100 participants to examine user attitudes, perceived cultural value, and experiences within the evolving cultural landscape of the library.

The anticipated findings suggest that users hold positive attitudes toward the revitalized spaces, demonstrating adaptability to new learning behaviors, collaborative activities and social interactions. At the same time, users are expected to retain a strong awareness and appreciation of the library’s historical significance and the “Spirit of TU”. The results aim to inform guidelines for space management that balance modern functionality with the preservation of the university’s cultural essence.