Libraries as Communities

As libraries continue to change, it is important to its users that it feels like a safe place, created with their interests in mind. Libraries are more than just buildings to house books. As we’ve discussed, they are hubs of creativity where knowledge and imagination meet. It is important that those who work in libraries continue to feed users’ curiosity. It is also important that professionals understand the ever-changing needs of their users and continually strive to meet their needs.

Many vulnerable people seek out libraries as means of shelter, for access to the internet, and for access to information they may be too embarrassed to seek elsewhere. Those who are homeless, jobless, those with mental illness, and those who are considered marginalized in communities all seek information. As professionals, we must learn to be compassionate, empathetic, and supporters of those who may have nowhere else to go. Libraries and the professionals who work within them have a duty to treat everyone as equals. This means that books and content are representative of the unique communities they serve.

Whether it’s making sure that LGBTQIA are represented in materials or if it’s ensuring that those in juvenile probation have age-appropriate reading material, it is always imperative to remember that all people are patrons and all have a right to the services libraries provide.

This means that we must remember the ALA values: equity, diversity, and inclusion (American Library Association, 2018). As allies of the people, we must remember that we do our jobs in the service of others. By remembering this important philosophy, we can create communities that are positively affected by our services.

References

About ALA. (2018). American Library Association. Retrieved from http://www.ala.org/aboutala/