The 2025 Big Ideas Book Discussion series kicks off with Meet Me at the Library: A Place to Foster Social Connection and Promote Democracy by Shamichael Hallman. The subtitle speaks to the enduring attributes of America’s public libraries as places that build community connections and uphold democratic principles.

We’ll hear from two Iowa libraries with connections to the book:
North Liberty Public Library (Jenner Garner, Director) is featured in the book
Burlington Public Library (Brittany Jacombs, Director) is using the for a library board book club

The book jacket reads “Increasingly, public libraries are playing an essential role in building social cohesion, promoting civic renewal, and advancing the ideals of a healthy democracy.” Come share how you want to encourage your community to say “Meet me at the library!”

About Big Ideas: State Library staff facilitate discussions using books outside of library management, but with application to libraries. Choosing books on leadership, customer service, presentation skills, etc. we connect those ideas with public library service.

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