Libraries as Social Hubs

Lauree Padgett states in their article The Social Library : “considering that libraries used to (and sometimes still do) have a reputation for being places for quiet contemplation, solitary study, and hushed voices, the word “social” seems like an odd adjective to use when describing them, yet more and more are becoming social hubs.” This statement couldn’t be more than true and Padgett hit the nail on the head. Not only is the library a place where you can borrow and use resources, but it’s also becoming a place where a community can gather, socialize, and share common interests. Many libraries have weekly activities, programs, classes, book clubs, etc. This gives libraries a great opportunity to engage with a community and pinpoint specific interests and needs based on the local demographic, as well as gets more people into the library. “When library staff embed themselves in the community, everyone benefits” (Hinze).

Here is a video of Shamichael Hallman discussing the steps Memphis Library is taking to becoming a social hub to reconnect with the community. He makes some great points about the importance of connecting with a community.

                                            https://youtu.be/JI2CLgq3LLk

 I live in a heavily Hispanic community and my local library has had events in the past that highlights Hispanic culture in art and food. My local library also has weekly story time and craft day for children. This program has been around for as long as I can remember. I remember attending as a young child and now my family takes my niece and nephew to the same program. I’ve also seen libraries taking steps to engage with teenagers and young adults. We have a coloring club for teenagers at my library and I’ve seen young adult book clubs forming. It’s very important to reach out to the youth. They are the next generation of library users. This generation of youth is powerful and they are going to do tremendous things for the future of libraries.

“Libraries are not only a vital barometer of community prosperity, but the conversations they can spark through programming and social media will redefine participatory culture.” – Brendan Howley

References

PADGETT, LAUREE. “The Social Library.” Information Today, vol. 34, no. 10, Dec. 2017, p. 23. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=126810320&site=ehost-live&scope=site.

Hinze, Shana. “Librarians as Community Ambassadors.” Young Adult Library Services, vol. 15, no. 1, Fall 2016, pp. 27–30. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=118843606&site=ehost-live&scope=site.

HOWLEY, BRENDAN. “Libraries as Values-Driven Participatory Culture Hubs.” Information Today, vol. 35, no. 5, June 2018, pp. 15–16. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=130182780&site=ehost-live&scope=site.