America is facing an epidemic of loneliness and isolation, with troubling effects on our mental and physical health. We live in one of the most divisive times in our history, one in which we tend to work, play, and associate only with people who think as we do. How do we create spaces for people to come together-to open our minds, understand our differences, and exchange ideas?
Shamichael Hallman argues that the public library may be our best hope for bridging these divides and creating strong, inclusive communities. While public libraries have long been thought of as a place for a select few, increasingly they are playing an essential role in building social cohesion, promoting civic renewal, and advancing the ideals of a healthy democracy. Many are reimagining themselves in new and innovative ways, actively reaching out to the communities they serve. Today, libraries are becoming essential institutions for repairing society.
Libraries have a unique opportunity to bridge socioeconomic divides and rebuild trust. But in order to do so, they must be truly welcoming to all. They and their communities must work collaboratively to bridge socioeconomic divides through innovative and productive partnerships.
Drawing from his experience at the Memphis Public Library and his extensive research and interviews across the country, Hallman presents a rich argument for seeing libraries as one of the nation's greatest assets. He includes examples from libraries large and small--such as the Iowa's North Liberty Library's Lighthouse in the Library program to bring people together to discuss important topics in a safe and supportive space, to Cambridge Cooks, an initiative of the Cambridge MA Public Library that fosters social connection by bringing people together over shared interest in food.
As an institution that is increasingly under attack for creating a place where diverse audiences can see themselves, public libraries are under more scrutiny than ever. Meet Me at the Library offers us a revealing look at one of our most important civic institutions and the social and civic impact they must play if we are to heal our divided nation.
""Hallman's book outlines a long list of why libraries are vital centers of human connection…. Vital reading for any library lover but especially for those who want to push back against those intent on silencing the important work of this institution."" "There are no better gardeners of our democracy than public librarians. A librarian knows how to seed and feed the civic imagination. Shamichael Hallman is a master civic gardener, and this powerful book is not just a chronicle of his professional and personal commitment to the library but also a praise song for local democracy and a picture of what is possible when we commit to democracy-even when we have many reasons to walk away from it. Read this book. Then go forth and garden. Our democracy is depending on us."---Eric Liu, CEO and Co-founder of Citizen University "'Meet Me at the Library is a book about our history. And it's also book about our future. Shamichael Hallman is a masterful storyteller and neighborhood steward who weaves personal narrative, social science, and civic imagination through compelling community stories that highlight of the power of public libraries and librarians to facilitate the best version of ourselves. Shamichael reminds us that society's ability to heal, repair, connect, and fortify our future is foundationally human. No AI required.'"---Lisa Kay Solomon, Lecturer and Designer in Residence at Stanford University's Hasso Planner Institute of Design; Co-author, 'Moments of Impact: How to Design Strategic Conversations that Accelerate Change and Design a Better Business;' Civic Catalyst Founder
