Libraries as Social Hubs by Nicole Grumkoski

I recently read an article with a bold and very true statement “Public libraries are one of the last truly human places in a homogenized world.” (Howley, 15) So many of our activities can be done online these days, from shopping, medical appointments, school, etc. I’m sure there could be a lot of debate on whether some of these day-to-day activities is best to do online or in-person, but I will focus on libraries. 

The libraries of my youth focused on circulating physical books and helping patrons find what they needed. Even as a young elementary student, the library was a place to gather whether it was with your family, friends, or classmates. The digital age has brought many more resources to the libraries in turn bringing more patrons to the library. This change has facilitated a growth in libraries becoming social hubs in their immediate communities.

Social media has taken over so much of our interpersonal interaction that we have become isolated from our communities. As we’ve seen in the past few years, expressing your opinions and beliefs online has led to those opposing your views and beliefs to respond with visceral reactions. Libraries can host meetings on current topics important to the community and some will be more apt to listen to an opposing view without the whiplash response often emitted from the individual sitting behind the protection of their computer. It’s the engagement in direct human conversation that allows other to thoughtfully contemplate views outside their own.

Typically, libraries have their finger on the pulse of their communities. What is important to the community? What resources can be brought in to serve their patrons? Programs in the library can be twofold, beneficial for the patron and showing the impact the library can make on their communities. Partnering with organizations or individuals that offer services such as homework and family literacy can provide immeasurable benefits to patrons and build social capital with the library (Bourke, 72). Deciding on the specific programs to bring to the library takes thoughtful planning, engaging, and networking with community leaders, and being flexible with their schedules to foster partnerships with organizations that would benefit the community.

Social hubs can also be created through children’s and teen’s programming. Weekly story time starts a child to begin their library journeys by listening to stories read aloud and checking out books. Even parents benefit from the children’s programming by meeting of other parents with children in the same age range. Programming for teens could be centered around pop culture such as Harry Potter nights. Even homework clubs can bring students together. Presenting positive and engaging programs to youth will heighten their sense of belonging.

Libraries that have built strong relationships with their patrons and valued partnerships in the community, may also see increased funding. The funding may be used to add library staff, resources, and additional programs for their patrons. Becoming a social hub, increases the visibility within the community benefitting the library and all those that participate in library activities.

 

Works Cited:

Bourke, Carolyn. “Public Libraries: Building Social Capital through Networking.” Australasian Public Libraries and Information Services, vol. 18, no. 2, Auslib Press Party Ltd, 2005, pp. 71–75.

 

Howley, Brendan. “Libraries as Values-Driven Participatory Culture Hubs.” Information Today, vol. 35, no. 5, Information Today, Inc, 2018, p. 15–.