What is the relationship between a library and democracy? Has it always been this way? Will it continue unchanged, even in the global context of geopolitical conflict and social unrest? What is it that libraries do that can possibly make a tangible difference to living in an open, democratic society?
While we know that libraries don’t and cannot single-handedly uphold democracy, we also know that they are essential in ensuring that information is accessible to all and that citizens can educate themselves and make informed decisions. Libraries have their roots in providing free and equitable access to information, roots that extend and connect people and communities with the services they need. Yet as both the past and the present shows us, when those roots are weakened, entire structures can fall. So this Library and Information Week we’re exploring how, why and where libraries are strengthening our democratic processes - the avenues, tactics and approaches they use, and what they can do to keep democracy thriving even when its very existence as an ideology and an ideal is being contested. Through this theme, our LIW resources, and soon to be announced program of events for the week, our overall aim is to help libraries talk confidently with government, civil society, and their communities on how they are upholding democratic values every day simply by doing what they do.
So save the date for 29 July - 4 August and keep an eye on our website, newsletter and social media channels for more details about the program of events and additional resources.