America is About to Lose One of Its Best Public Resource: Public Libraries

[suffragette]

81. Libraries are a living symbol of much that the right wing hates

Libraries are centers of knowledge. In addition to books (nowadays in various media), there are reading programs, job searching assistance, language programs and more.

They provide free access to this, regardless of social status. You don't need to have bought services or products frequently to be a member and you won't be turned away or treated rudely based on how you look or dress. They are the egalitarian community centers of their cities.

They are a physical demonstratation of the purpose and value of learning being available and achievable by all in society. This is a radical stand at a time when evermore ideas are being placed under virtual lock and key as patented or copyrighted material, accessible only to those who can pay the price demanded.

They are centers of resistance to attempts at authoritarianism across our society. Librarians are vocal in demanding and providing freedom to read and think about views that may not be popular at particular times or are regarded as dangerous by some segments of society. Banned book weeks address this head on. Librarians were active in fighting against secretive actions of targeting people through the Patriot Act. They fought for the privacy of people exploring knowledge.

They stand for freedom of thought and expression and the availability of learning and growth for everyone, ideals which the right wing want reserved only for themselves and denied to others.