The threat to defund public libraries is on the rise and serves as a danger to democracy.
With the recent move toward banning books, lawmakers are targeting libraries next.
In June, Ohio state Sen. Al Cutrona proposed House Bill 622, a bill that would defund libraries if they did not remove texts that they deemed harmful to adolescents. If a library did not comply, state funding would be revoked.
The book bans happening across the country already prevent people from accessing information that might expand their worldview and promote critical thinking.
If libraries do not comply and are defunded, this could be harmful to the state of our democracy and hurt lower-class individuals.
Libraries are not just a place to check out books. Libraries provide a variety of services that are useful to communities. They provide internet access, shelter, maker spaces, books and media, community events and so much more.
The people who benefit the most from libraries are those who fall under a low socioeconomic status.
According to the Adult Learning Alliance of Arkansas, 23% of adults lack basic literacy skills and 11% of Arkansans over the age of 25 do not have a high school diploma.
Libraries promote literacy and knowledge to lower-class individuals, as access to books, digital platforms and other types of media are free. Books and subscription services can be pricey, but the library provides those resources for free with a library card. The free books not only provide community members with access to entertainment, it raises literacy rates for children and adults.
Additionally, libraries can also help with finding people employment, as libraries will frequently host community events to help residents find jobs. These events frequently offer services like revising resumes and offering mock interviews to help with interview preparedness. Access to these resources is beneficial to those having a hard time finding a job or even to any community members looking to improve their marketability.
Libraries offer so many helpful resources, and they are one of the last free third spaces — a public space where people can gather and socialize outside of their homes and workplaces — Americans have access to.
Libraries function as community spaces that you do not have to pay money to be in. The Faulkner County Library frequently hosts community events where people can gather to make crafts, discuss books or garden. These events allow residents to meet new people, relax and spend time in a space that is not home, work or school and require no payment for participation.
By defunding libraries, politicians are not only taking away the public’s access to free information, but they are taking away spaces where people of different backgrounds can come together as a community and work to better themselves.
To prevent the defunding of public libraries, sign up for a library card. Having a card shows that the community values their library. Also, get out and vote. Voting is the most important thing one can do to prevent the defunding of valuable resources like public libraries. By electing politicians to prioritize social resources, libraries can remain accessible to our communities.