Public libraries have transformed themselves from mere book-lenders into hubs of social and economic activity.  In a recent column, journalist Neal Peirce details how libraries are adding new services ranging from lending gardening tools and hosting chess club meetings, to providing job search assistance and English instruction.  Peirce quotes Partners’ president Robert McNulty regarding the transformation:

"Central libraries, notes Robert McNulty of Partners for Livable Communities, can be “the great good place in the city” — as a literacy, Internet and special film center, or as a place for lectures, for local performing arts and exhibitions. Or as a coffee house. Or as an information center for visiting tourists, or a safe place for kids."

Here at Partners, we believe that institutions such as public libraries can become “fulcrums of change,” by creating stronger social and economic development agendas for their communities.  The transformation we see in many of our libraries is a significant step in that direction.  (Read more about our Fulcrums of Change Initiative here.)

Is your local library finding innovative ways to become the “great good place” of the community?  Comment below to spread the good news. 

For more on this topic:

• Click here for statistics on new services that are putting our libraries at the heart of community activity (PDF).

• A study by the University of Kansas offers 7 recommendations for how libraries can take an active role in economic development (PDF).