RE: Question for Tuesday, September 26: What Can Libraries Do,What Do Libraries Need

[Terry Link <link@mail.lib.msu.edu>]

I believe that essentially this is a local decision, based upon the community one works in. Given that broad caveat, I believe libraries need to be creative in looking for solutions, trial efforts, etc. One approach is to use the technique that a number of libraries mentioned in "A Place at the Table: Participating in Community Building". This work published in conjunction with ALA's President Sara Long's theme about building sustainable communities, shows numerous examples of librarians going out into the community to listen to needs, build partnerships with other community organizations, government agencies, in an effort to bring citizens the information they need to make life decisions. In following this process they are strengthening the role of the library in their community, and thus making it a more likely place for people to turn to and support.

What the issues are and what groups and agencies one should partner with will vary from community to community.  However, the need to get out there and be engaged in the community is a necessary first step.