Monday, February 16, 2026

Books are a library's mission

From: Ancient Mother

Would a public library ever have the imagination to do something like this for the children, instead of shelving hundreds of age-inappropriate books from ideologically-driven publishers who use schools and libraries to funnel their politics? 

Would they have the courage to refocus on the historical mission of a library, which is to provide quality books to the community? So many public libraries nowadays have become "community centers" that focus on a plethora of craft activities and non-literary resources to try and remain relevant.

When our nation was a bit younger, the importance of literacy and books was illustrated by the Book Boat Women.

 What if a public library had the courage to fill their shelves with quality literature  that uplifts and encourages the good and the beautiful? What if they had ongoing book clubs for children and adults instead of endless craft events? What if they actually promoted literacy? What if they became a resource for after-school tutoring in reading?

Books, the kind you can hold in your hand, the kind that have a certain fragrance that wafts up from the pages is not something that goes out of style or becomes obsolete. Physical books have been de-emphasized in favor of the digital. And humans are poorer for it. Their ability to concentrate has been markedly affected. Reading scores are in the dirt at many school districts. It's a big problem, and libraries can be a solution instead of part of the problem. A mom discusses it here. Her solution? A home library. She says, "I’m shocked by some of the books that my kids pick up. Books that go deeply against our family values. I want my children surrounded by books that lift their minds and challenge them to become better human beings - the most prominently displayed books at our library aren’t going to get them there." 

While most of the article is behind a paywall, she gives some excellent insight into the problems in our public libraries.

If our libraries make actual books a priority, there is great good that can be accomplished for the community. As it is, the return on investment for the taxpayer is diminishing by the year.

No comments:

Post a Comment