Civics

How does your local library work?

My vision of a world worth fighting for includes ample and free public libraries. And our town is proud to host a brand-new public library. In its first year, library visits increased by 264%, support from reference librarians grew by 219%, and tech assistance rose by 170%. Yet, when voters were asked to fund its construction, there was significant public pushback. Hearing angry protesters question why we needed a library when we have the internet made me realize that libraries have a branding problem.

So, I joined the board of the Greenfield Public Library Foundation, proud to help more people understand the countless ways libraries are central to both community and democracy.

It turns out my neighbors aren’t the only ones who misunderstand the purpose and value of these vital resources. That’s where this book comes in. Libraries are essential infrastructure for building equitable, informed, and connected communities while addressing societal challenges like literacy gaps, digital access inequalities, and social isolation. This book explains how.

Civics

"This is also a time of extraordinary possibility."

VIDEO: It's Our Job to Make Sure People Know the Truth

Civics

That sensation that everything seems broken but feels strangely normal? It has a name.

ARTICLE: Systems Are Crumbling – But Daily Life Continues. The Dissonance Is Real

Civics

When it comes to changing the values, mindsets, rules, and goals of a system, story is foundational.

Article: Using Story to Change Systems

Civics

"82% of visitors said use of the library 'positively affects how optimistic they are about the future.'”

Article: It’s Official: Research Has Found That Libraries Make Everything Better.