This series invites people to share how libraries and reading have influenced their lives. Read other stories here.
I can still close my eyes and feel it: The familiar comfort of an afternoon spent hanging out in the library, the promise of endless hours among books, and the satisfying weight of a stack of titles I could barely carry home. It wasn't just a building; it was a sanctuary. It was a place where I could wander through quiet aisles, pull down any book that caught my eye, and lose myself in stories that introduced me to fascinating characters and ignited my imagination. Here, I could simply be, learning and growing without judgment, finding a safe, quiet haven from the world outside.
That profound sense of joy and freedom — the unrestricted access to knowledge and wonder — indelibly shaped who I am today. It instilled in me a lifelong love of learning, a deep appreciation for the power of information, and a fundamental belief in the importance of equitable access to resources. In many ways, my journey from a wide-eyed child in the children's section to a librarian myself, and now to someone who partners with libraries, feels like a natural and inevitable progression. My career isn't just a job; it's a continuation of that lifelong experience.
Cornerstones of Community and Freedom
This deep personal connection is why, as both a librarian and a leader who works intimately with library systems, I feel so strongly about the continued support and funding of these vital institutions. Libraries are not relics of the past. They are dynamic, evolving hubs that serve our communities in countless ways. They offer literacy programs that set children on a path to success, provide internet access for those who might otherwise be disconnected, offer job search assistance, host community events, and serve as safe spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Crucially, libraries are also the ultimate champions of the freedom to read. They ensure that a diverse array of voices, ideas, and perspectives are available to everyone, regardless of their background or ability to pay. This principle of open access to information and diverse viewpoints is fundamental to a thriving, informed society. Libraries are on the front lines, making sure that the right to explore, question, and learn from a vast collection of materials remains accessible and protected for all.
The Call to Action
Libraries are essential to our communities, yet they continue to face challenges in securing the resources they need to thrive. Recent proposals to reduce funding for IMLS, a key source of grants and support for libraries across the country, raise serious concerns. These aren’t just budgetary decisions; they affect access to knowledge, literacy, and the freedom to read.
Libraries have long enjoyed bipartisan support across the political spectrum. Their mission, to foster learning, literacy, and informed citizenship, has historically united people of all backgrounds and beliefs. But that consensus shows signs of strain.
The quiet hum of a library may seem modest, but its impact is profound. If you’ve ever experienced the joy of discovering a new book, the support of a helpful librarian, or the sense of belonging that comes from a shared public space, you know how vital libraries are.
Now is the time to speak up and share your story. Advocate for sustained investment in libraries as a commitment to education, opportunity, and community. Let's ensure that future generations can experience the same joy, discovery, and sense of belonging that I found within the walls of my childhood library. When we support libraries, we invest in the very best of what brings us together.
Danielle Borasky is NoveList's Vice President. She is currently reading The Women by Kristin Hannah.
