Now More Than Ever

I’m not going to lie, I’m having a hard time feeling positive right now. I arrived at work just going through the motions – watering plants and shelving books.

As I picked up these books I remembered what they represent. The struggle, the vision, and the courage that so many before me have carried through hard times.

I put a well-worn copy of one of my favorite books, Assata back on display.

This library began in 1974 to promote peace and dialogue. It was a place for conversations about alternatives.

It’s because of these conversations that our collection expanded to include racial justice, ecology, gender-studies, an impressive number of documentaries, a children’s book section….

But in today’s filter bubble society, I’m worried about conversation. Really worried.

In the last few years we’ve seen a dramatic shift to online media and the filter bubble that Eli Pariser warned us about no-doubt played a role in this election.

(by the way, I hope you check out that link up there)

I’m worried about the lack of common space for people to gather and collaborate on projects. Or the lack of common space for students to meet members of the community that are doing important work.

That’s exactly why we’ve been working so hard to move the library into a larger space. It’s taken longer than we hoped, but it’s happening. We’re moving across the hall. We’ll be hosting events, our space will be larger, and there are more places to hang out, read, and scheme (more on this soon).

The library is no longer just a place for books, it’s a place for organizing and action.

Thanks for reading! I’m glad you’re out there – and always love to see you at the library.

Best,
Ryan Clover

PS. my friend Nic Belott has been writing anniversaries for WRFI’s Eco-Defense Radio. Check out this anniversary of Assata Shakur’s escape from prison.

PS. Check out the Filter Bubble, by Eli Pariser (like, literally “check it out” from the library.).