Libraries: Guardians of Democracy

Libraries offer safe (and brave) community spaces—places where neighbors can express and amplify their voices. At a perilous time when the library profession confronts overwhelming trials, citizens* isolated after years of a devastating pandemic and disheartened by a contentious election have turned toward libraries—a place to seek refuge, reconnect with friends and neighbors, and work together to address common concerns. During the pandemic, librarians showed up for them, turning outward and deepening relationships with local communities. Now, faced with local, state, and federal challenges, librarians must galvanize those same citizens to show up across America as a bulwark in defense of democracy and their most cherished liberties—manifest locally through their libraries.