ALA President Loida Garcia-Febo announces “Libraries = Strong Communities” advocacy effort

NEW ORLEANS –  Today American Library Association (ALA) President Loida Garcia-Febo introduced “Libraries = Strong Communities,” a national advocacy effort aimed at highlighting the value of academic, public and school libraries. This initiative is uniquely positioned to ignite public awareness of the value of libraries and library staff and create a groundswell of support at the local, state, national and global level. Garcia-Febo announced the effort during the ALA Annual Conference & Exhibit Inaugural Banquet in New Orleans.

In an era filled with political and social strife, our nation’s libraries continue to play an invaluable role in providing resources and expertise that foster community engagement and transform lives through education and lifelong learning.  

“As cornerstones of democracy, libraries empower users to make informed decisions by providing free access to information,” said Garcia-Febo. “Libraries provide more than just books. They support community engagement and the delivery of new services that connect closely with patrons’ needs. As libraries transform we should seize every opportunity to showcase their magnificent work.” 

Garcia-Febo will tour a series of libraries in support of “Libraries = Strong Communities” to call attention to the significant role libraries of all types play within their communities. The cross-country tour currently consists of six U.S. stops, including Pikes Peak (Colorado) Public Library District, October 6, 2018; Cambridge (Massachusetts) Public Library, October 18, 2018; Seattle Public Library, January 26, 2019; North Miami Public Library, February,9 2019; and Los Angeles Public Library, May 15, 2019. It will conclude on June 22, 2019 during the ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition in Washington, D.C.

Tour locations will provide an opportunity for Garcia- Febo, participating library leaders and local advocates to address local and national issues as well as generate public awareness of programs and resources. Elected officials, community-based organizations, state library associations, ALA divisions and chapter members and the public will be invited to participate in local events and advocacy efforts.

“Libraries = Strong Communities” will include messaging used in conjunction with ALA’s Libraries Transform public awareness campaign. Publicity tools, including a press release template, flyer, Because Statements, and Facebook frame, will be available for participating libraries as well as advocates at large. Additional information regarding the tour will be available within the next few weeks, and those interested in following tour activities in real time may follow the hashtag #LibrariesStrong.

The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the ALA has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit ala.org.