Expresses support for library staff and their essential services, advocating for adequate funding, freedom of information, and the right to organize, while defending their civil rights.
Pramila Jayapal
Representative
WA-7
This resolution expresses support for library staff and the essential services libraries provide, recognizing their role in connecting communities with information, resources, and social services. It emphasizes the need for adequate funding to support libraries and protect the rights of library workers. The resolution also reaffirms the public's right to access information and the importance of libraries as vital infrastructure for the future.
House Resolution Backs Library Staff, Calls for Full Funding Amid Rising Demands and Censorship Threats
This House Resolution throws official support behind the folks working in our public, school, academic, and special libraries across the country. It's essentially a big 'thank you' note that also acknowledges the tough spot many libraries are in righting now, facing squeezed budgets while dealing with more community needs than ever.
Libraries: Your Community's Swiss Army Knife
The resolution paints a clear picture: libraries aren't just quiet places with books anymore. Staff are on the front lines, helping people find jobs, access the internet (which is crucial, especially if you can't afford it at home), connect with social services, and even navigate public health crises like the opioid epidemic or the recent pandemic. They became hubs for distributing protective gear and COVID tests. Think about it – they're supporting small business owners, students learning new skills, and providing a safe space for people experiencing homelessness, all while keeping the doors open.
Under Pressure: Funding Cuts and Book Battles
Here's the rub, according to the resolution: while demand for these vital services is going up, funding often isn't keeping pace. This mismatch can lead to tough working conditions. On top of that, the resolution directly calls out the increasing pressure library staff face regarding censorship. It cites PEN America's finding of over 10,000 book ban instances in schools during the 2023-2024 school year and notes staff have faced threats, termination, and even criminal charges for upholding the principle of free access to information. The text also specifically mentions concerns linked to 'Project 2025' regarding potential mistreatment and harassment.
What the House is Saying 'Yes' To
So, what does this resolution actually do? It formally praises library staff, supports National Library Week (coming up April 6-12, 2025), and labels libraries as 'vital infrastructure.' Crucially, it backs the call for 'full funding' at all government levels to keep these services running and improving. It also strongly reaffirms several key rights: the public's right to access information freely, the right of library workers to organize and bargain collectively (form unions), and the civil rights of library staff to do their jobs without facing threats or intimidation. It also recognizes their right to speak out on issues affecting libraries and public access to information.