This paper is part of a larger study on the establishment of a new library and cultural center in Copenhagen. The study will deal with both the conceptualization, materialization and the actual use of the library/cultural center. The paper presents a preliminary basis for the study as well as the major European study which it is part of. The paper presents initially a number of key concepts for the study, and through an analysis of important discourses in relation to the future urban, cultural and library development that characterizes central local government documents the paper presents important parts of the landscape in which the new library/cultural center must navigate. In this context connection to more general discourses that characterizes both current cultural policy, library policy and urban development will be emphasized.