Access Quote by Arthur Curley
“When the function of libraries is put in terms of their contributions to the community, people see their centrality. The challenge to us is to continue to help them see it in those terms to describe our larger purposes. We must assert that libraries are central to the quality of life in our society; that libraries have a direct role in preserving democratic freedoms. Free access to information and the opportunity of every individual to improve his or her mind, employment prospects, and lifestyle are fundamental rights in our society.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Library Advocacy Address, Arthur Curley, 1995
Libraries are vital to community well‑being, democracy, and personal advancement; they must be framed as essential to quality of life.
In simple terms: Libraries support democracy and personal growth.
Key Takeaway
Promote libraries as community pillars.
Themes
education
democracy
community
access
quality of life
Mood
inspirational
advocacy
Type
policy
social
When to use this quote
- policy making
- school curricula
- public funding
- community events
Key Concepts
information equity
civic engagement
social mobility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we demonstrate library impact?
- What policies protect library access?
A Different Perspective
Funding cuts threaten their role.
