It's the local staple: people might take it for granted but they would do everything to save it. Well-loved places such as San Francisco's Tosca cafe are being passionately protected by citizens who defend their social value in the midst of urban change.
These may not be places with any grand function - we're not talking hospitals or city halls here - but they mean something to people and form a part of local heritage. Whether it's a pub, bar, cafe, shop, or perhaps an old music hall or cinema - these places hold great significance for communities and many are now becoming co-operatives, community assets or attaining Legacy status to sustain their presence in city life.
What are your neighbourhood's places of greatest social value? Why are they important to you? Share your stories, pictures or videos using GuardianWitness and we'll publish the best on Guardian Cities. Just click on the blue 'Contribute' button, or if you're out and about you can download the free GuardianWitness app for smartphones.
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