Libraries, museums and cultural centers in foreign policy and cultural diplomacy: a scoping review

Purpose Libraries, museums and cultural centers have long served as ambassadors foreign policy instruments, bridging diplomatic relationships among nation-states institutions. The purpose of this scoping review is to ascertain understand the emerging areas research on libraries, in diplomacy within broader paradigms international relations, social sciences, education library information studies by systematically mapping key concepts identifying types knowledge gaps. Design/methodology/approach Using Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) Manual for Evidence Synthesis, relevant peer-reviewed journal articles, books book chapters that were published over a wide time period any language from various databases examined. Two reviewers worked independently extract data reached consensus regarding inclusion criteria using JBI’s charting template. Findings In total, 6,436 citations screened, 57 documents identified eligible inclusion. following sequences reviewed explored: study characteristics, theoretical approaches themes. themes grouped into ones included goals, actors, strategies instruments. Finally, concentration clusters ideas gaps emerged investigated, resulting discussion recommendations directions future research. Originality/value This first useful tool investigating changing novel roles policy. Although substantial work exists topic, potential remains interdisciplinary challenge extend current about practices centers.