Quick Summary
Earlier this month, Metronet held a public viewing of the documentary, “The Librarians,” followed by a Q&A panel featuring librarians and media specialists.
Metronet held a public viewing earlier this month of the Emmy-nominated documentary “The Librarians” at the Minneapolis Central Library branch. This documentary focuses on the increasing book banning efforts across the country and how librarians work to navigate the changing landscapes and protect access to information. This viewing was followed by a panel discussion with Minnesota library leaders who answered questions and offered their perspectives on book banning and challenging discourse.
Here are a few takeaways:
Librarians are essential civic leaders
For years, librarianship has been associated with a passive curation of material and administrative logistics, but amidst the rising number of book banning attempts, it is increasingly clear that librarians and library staff do much more than shelve books. Library work is an active and ongoing process of creating access to information and protecting free speech.
Book Banning is no longer isolated grassroots efforts
Recently, book banning efforts have become increasingly coordinated, becoming more and more a means of systemic policy pressures rather than isolated instances. This highlights the need for an established board of governance, clear procedures for reconsideration, and objective guidelines for collection development.
Structural support is required to protect library staff
By shining a light on the personal, emotional, and professional toll that harassment and job insecurity have on librarians challenging book bans, the documentary highlights the need for strong institutional backing, regulation, and community support.
Understanding library work could help prevent misconceptions
Controversy around book banning and challenges often stem from lack of understanding regarding how books are chosen and collection curated at libraries. Librarians follow detailed, age-appropriate guidelines and clear policies to decide what books are on shelves.
People love libraries
Despite headlines, debates, and news stories portraying divided communities, a large number of parents, students, and neighbors value their libraries deeply. They look to libraries for third spaces, community, and access to information. Showing up for libraries today keeps the doors open tomorrow.
Thank you, Metronet, for hosting this viewing! Make sure to subscribe to their mailing list to stay up-to-date with future events and opportunities.
