Community Champions: Librarians
Librarians do so much more than just help you check out books. They provide guidance and facilitate the operations of an incredibly vital community resource.
"Libraries level the playing field. As great democratic institutions, they serve people of every age, income level, location, ethnicity, and physical ability, and provide the full range of information resources needed to live, learn, govern, and work." - American Library Association
An extremely underrated resource in many communities, libraries provide a wide variety of functions. And to maintain them, you need a special variety of individuals. Librarians can not only help you pick out your next great read but also assist you with anything else you may visit the library for.
Internet Access
Most libraries offer complimentary Wi-Fi and computer use. This is an incredibly vital resource for individuals who do not have internet access in a society where it is nearly impossible to function without an email and the ability to find information online. Librarians help to maintain the technology systems and can teach you how to perform internet searches efficiently.
Educational Resources
When you have access to a vast amount of print and digital information, there are no limits to what you can learn. Thankfully, librarians are trained to assist you in finding precisely what you are looking for. This is especially helpful for learning new languages, studying for school, and developing personal and professional skills.
Preserve History
In some libraries, librarians also function as archivists. They are in charge of organizing records and artifacts that help preserve the local community's history, such as maps and old newspaper clippings. This can be an extremely useful way for individuals to research personal genealogy, past environmental conditions and urban design, and laws and events.
After-School Spot
For singular or groups of students, libraries can be a perfect place to go after school to do homework and work on projects. With a combination of communal workspaces, technology, print materials on various subjects, and kind and welcoming librarians, students have a safe location to go outside school hours.
Gathering Spaces
Libraries can also be a multi-functional space for teams to meet to work, children to attend storytimes, artists to display their pieces for viewers, and special interest groups to host events. These gathering spaces help connect community members. Librarians help organize various events and coordinate the use of public meeting spaces.
Community Resources
For individuals from underserved parts of the population or those who need extra assistance with important tasks, librarians can offer help with many things, such as filing taxes and filling out government forms, searching and applying for jobs, and finding other essential resources such as shelters and food banks.
If you're interested in being a community champion, becoming a bus driver is a great way to do that. Check out this article about ways bus drivers impact the community.
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