Congress Gives Libraries a Shout-Out: Resolution Backs Staff, Intellectual Freedom, and Collective Bargaining

This resolution is essentially Congress giving a massive, formal thank you note to library staff across the country. It doesn't create new laws or allocate funding, but it officially recognizes that libraries are doing way more than just lending books—they are essential community infrastructure, and their staff deserve better support and protection.

The Library as the New Community Center

Forget the quiet, dusty stereotype. This resolution acknowledges what many of us already know: libraries have become the ultimate community lifeline. They aren't just places to check out the latest bestseller; they are where people go for essential services. Think about it: libraries are often the only place offering free internet access, job application help, and even critical social service connections. The resolution specifically points out that library staff have stepped up during crises, whether it's distributing COVID-19 supplies or administering overdose reversal medication during the opioid crisis. For a rural parent or a laid-off worker, the library is often the last-mile connection to the resources they need to keep things together.

Protecting the People Who Keep the Doors Open

If you work at a library, this resolution is a big deal for your rights. It strongly supports the right of library workers to organize, bargain collectively, and have a protected union voice. This is Congress formally saying library staff deserve better working conditions and a seat at the table. Furthermore, it defends library staff against harassment and intimidation, noting that these workers are often on the front lines of public service but face severe budget cuts and dangerous working environments. This is a clear signal that staff shouldn't have to choose between their job safety and serving the public.

Defending Your Right to Read

Perhaps the most crucial part for the general public is the resolution’s defense of intellectual freedom. It stresses that a healthy democracy requires everyone to access information freely. This means library staff must be able to curate diverse collections without fear of censorship. The resolution explicitly condemns the alarming trend of book bans—citing thousands of instances in school libraries during the 2023–2024 school year—and highlights that staff have faced termination or criminal charges for refusing to remove challenged books. Essentially, this resolution is a formal pushback against anyone trying to limit what you or your kids can read.

The Catch: It’s All Aspirational

Since this is a non-binding resolution, it’s more of a powerful statement than a law with teeth. It calls for "funding commensurate with the broad scope of social service" libraries provide, which is great in theory. However, it doesn't actually create a federal funding stream or mandate that state or local governments increase their budgets. It’s an important moral victory and political pressure point for library advocates, but it doesn't solve the immediate budget crunch or the staffing shortage that forces library workers to take on these expanded, high-stakes roles. Still, for those who rely on libraries for everything from a quiet place to work to essential social services, having Congress officially recognize their importance is a significant step.