Often seen as quiet spaces for study, libraries have a lesser-known history of activism, says a local librarian.
Mike Selby, Deputy Director of the Cranbrook Public Library, will present The Freedom Libraries on June 18 at the College of the Rockies’ Cranbrook campus.
“Libraries are in the crossfire yet again, as conservative groups mount a historic number of challenges to books that deal with race, racism and LGBTQ identity,” Selby said.
“The book-ban campaigns have turned so nasty that some librarians have lost or left their jobs. But this is not the first time library workers have faced anger.”
While studying for his Master of Library and Information Studies at the University of Alabama, Selby uncovered the little-known story of Freedom Libraries — grassroots libraries founded across the American South during the 1960s Civil Rights Movement.
These spaces offered access to African Americans who were barred from public libraries due to segregation.
“Freedom Libraries were created and staffed by people who faced beatings, bombings and even homicide— all to ensure others could read a library book,” Selby said.
With more than 900 published articles, many focused on libraries and the Civil Rights era, Selby offers his insight on how libraries have served as both sanctuaries and battlegrounds for justice and equality.
Selby’s lecture will explore the power of access to information and the role libraries play in democracy.
For more information or to register, visit the College of the Rockies’ website.
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