I never thought I’d live so long to see librarians under vicious attack for just doing their job. They say the squeaky wheel gets the grease, and that’s a perfect aphorism for what is happening to these public servants today.

The personal attacks and public accusations, often placed with charges of sexual deviancy, are abhorrent to those of us who see librarians in a totally different light. The librarian’s job is a calling, and one that demands the strongest character coupled with a servant’s heart. But the naysayers have spread conspiracy theories meant to tarnish reputations and force their targets out of a job. It’s sickening, and it must be challenged at every turn!

But how can you as a patron who fully admires those who run these institutions make a difference in the war against our librarians?

My son Jake, a public librarian married to another public librarian (daughter-in-law Jacquie) sent me 10 things that we library supporters can do to counter these unjustifiable attacks. Here is a list of things big and small that you can do to support your local librarians:

• Write a letter to the editor.
• Speak on their behalf at public meetings.
• Research before you vote for school/library board members. (In Kentucky, we don’t get to vote for library board members, but we do vote for the county magistrates and judge executives that put them in place. That’s where the focus must be now!)
• Tell library staffers how much you value them.
• Vote in support when libraries are on the ballot.
• Donate to libraries and/or their foundations.
• Follow the group EveryLibrary.org
• Volunteer your time at your local library.
• Serve on a library board or Friends of the Library group.
• Encourage your friends and families to use and support your library.

Ron Cooper ©2024