I really relate to the “distracted student” thing, as I am always falling down rabbit holes researching things that, well, at least started as part of an assignment (but rarely finish in a relevant place). Even when it’s inconvenient, I still think it’s a better way to live — like you said, life is more colorful that way. Having the tools and the time to indulge my curiosity is very important to me, so the fact that libraries can help provide that foundation for everyone is a huge part of why I like them so much, and why I’m in this field in the first place.
Your story about how patrons at the Braille Institute Library feel about the books they get access to is very moving. I can’t imagine how much of a difference that sense of independence must make in their lives.

I really needed to read your post today- so thank you. You had mentioned the feeling of how time has stopped, and that describes how I’ve been feeling for these past two days.

I work in a high school and while officially I’m supposed to keep politics out of the workplace, I had to have several conversations with students yesterday who felt let down by their families, communities, and nation.

I overheard a discussion around a group of freshman (full disclosure- one of them is my child) and they were trying to figure out what they could do. I asked them if they were trying to start a revolution, and several of them yelled “YES!” While I was teasing, I was given hope. These kids are 14 years old, but they are already aware that they have to do something in this world to help.

So yes. Collaborate. Connect to the right organizations and make sure that we take a stand for what is right.

Louis – I so appreciate your honesty and thoughtfulness about this post. The last week plus has been difficult in many ways. I feel like I’m grieving your last paragraph resonates and I hope and I will always have hope that this will be the way forward.

@Louis Thanks for this post. I will update the module with the newest winner!

@louis It’s so sad to hear (among so many other things) that the Edward Said Public Library was destroyed. This was a very good read, and I enjoyed checking out many of the libraries you linked to.

@arthurkolat

Thanks for the recommendations and the links! Lehmann’s work looks very interesting. The design of a library definitely has a huge impact on how a community views the library. And some of these modern super-libraries find incredible ways of blending classic, traditional models — with stacks and reading rooms and a general feeling of bookiness — with the hyper modern open layouts, where anything feels possible. Especially when the architecture seems to blend into and become one with the urban and natural landscape.

@Louis You make some strong points here about class and the hierarchy of library org charts. Much to think about and I agree we have things to do before we can truly be a hyperlinked organization.

Hi!

I love how you mentioned seeing libraries for what they are and advocating for them. I also believe it is through advocating that libraries can be well-funded libraries and employ diverse staff who live in and understand their communities. It is that kind of thinking and call to action that will help ensure libraries remain resilient and relevant in the years to come. Thank you for sharing!