A New Leadership Brief From the Urban Libraries Council (ULC): “Libraries as Cornerstones of Democracy”

From the Urban Libraries Council: 

Today, the Urban Libraries Council (ULC) published a new Leadership Brief — Libraries as Cornerstones of Democracy. This timely publication outlines the vital work public libraries are performing to ensure all community members are informed and active in protecting democracy and intellectual freedom. Libraries as Cornerstones of Democracy urges library executives to embody the value of ULC’s Declaration of Democracy by supporting and promoting the preservation of rights and active citizenry.

To guide library executives in taking additional steps to protect and preserve democracy, the Leadership Brief highlights the core areas libraries can focus on to increase their reach in promoting a more democratic community, as outlined in the Declaration of Democracy. The Brief also spotlights the work of eight exemplary ULC member libraries in the U.S. and Canada that empower their patrons through various programs and services.

“It is clear that we are currently living in a time fraught with assaults on freedoms and basic human rights,” said ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater. “The closely held values of library professionals are being questioned through the rise in book banning and restrictive legislation. It is incumbent on all leaders — of libraries and otherwise — to stand up against these efforts and ensure everyone’s fundamental rights are protected.”

Learn More, Read the Complete Publication Announcement

Direct to Full Text: Libraries as Cornerstones of Democracy
3 pages; PDF.

Filed under: Libraries, Management and Leadership, News, Patrons and Users, Preservation, Public Libraries