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Affinity Quote by John Jakes

“I have always had a special affinity for libraries and librarians, for the most obvious reasons. I love books. (One of my first Jobs was shelving books at a branch of the Chicago Public Library.) Libraries are a pillar of any society. I believe our lack of attention to funding and caring for them…” quote by John Jakes
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“I have always had a special affinity for libraries and librarians, for the most obvious reasons. I love books. (One of my first Jobs was shelving books at a branch of the Chicago Public Library.) Libraries are a pillar of any society. I believe our lack of attention to funding and caring for them properly in the United States has a direct bearing on problems of literacy, productivity, and our inability to compete in today's world. Libraries are everyman's free university.”

John Jakes

About This Quote

Source Interview: Public Radio interview, 2015, John Jakes discussing libraries

Libraries are essential cultural institutions; underfunding harms literacy, productivity, and national competitiveness.

In simple terms: Libraries support education and society; neglect hurts progress.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for stronger library funding and support.

Themes

education culture public policy literacy economics

Mood

concerned hopeful determined

Type

advocacy policy inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy advocacy
  • community fundraising
  • school partnerships
  • library board service

Key Concepts

civic engagement public good knowledge access

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can communities rally to protect library funding?
  • What role do libraries play in economic development?
A Different Perspective

Funding constraints limit impact; political priorities may overlook libraries.

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