The Role of Libraries in Strengthening Communities

Dag Hammarskjold Library Insight Series, Thursday, May 23

The Reading Room of the Dag Hammarskjold Library provides a warm and friendly atmosphere to hold a discussion that means so much to many of us: the importance of libraries in raising awareness and promoting the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN. Officials from Academic and Public Libraries made up the panel that led an informative and healthy conversation. Libraries play a vital role in personal growth, education, providing information, and even eradication of poverty. Academic libraries spend a great deal of time researching data, making it easy for students to access information and for agencies to research better health opportunities for the people. Libraries are safe spaces that offer conversation among interfaith, NGOs, governments, professors, and various cultural groups.

It was refreshing to listen to value being placed on these resources. It was surprising to learn that many schools don’t have libraries, making it even more necessary to have community libraries where students, and adults alike, can be members of.

The Brahma Kumaris in Queens, New York has been conducting various workshops in libraries. The attendance is not only encouraging but the feedback tells us of the need of these resources in our communities.