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At my local public library, I could request books to be bought and put on the shelves. I was allowed to host open mic nights in middle school where I and other friends would read poetry and whatever else, free of censorship. Civil engagement through the library was easier than a lot of other public institutions, because while librarians curate, they also have the job of catering to their audience, and respecting requests.

The library became a sanctuary for me after school as it meant I could avoid abuse back home and have a less surveilled access to information such as books, wikis, news, protest music, games, etc. which I was able to later take back home or to other places and consume without fear of reprimand. It was also a third place, where I could meet people, gather people and engage with my community.

> They're not banned. But the books on display at my local branch library are curated by dangerous librarians I want nothing to do with.

Did you persistently try to civically engage with your local library over time and form a personal, positive relationship with the librarians? If so, and if denied, did you seek restitution in city hall or by contacting local congressmen? Or are you just complaining?

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rufus_foreman 6 hours ago | parent [-]

>> I was allowed to host open mic nights in middle school where I and other friends would read poetry and whatever else, free of censorship

That's nice. Keep it down though, we're trying to read books in here.

I'm beginning to suspect we have completely incompatible ideas of what a library is.

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soulofmischief 6 hours ago | parent [-]

A public library is a third space where ideas can be accessed and exchanged, and a focal point where the community can civically engage. In the past, that has mostly meant books, which have been a great way of archiving things, but many public libraries also have rooms for listening to music, watching films, or at least renting them to take home.

Many public libraries also welcome and encourage open mics if they have space to host them without affecting others. In my case, it was a small library in a small town, so I hosted the open mic after hours with the grace of the librarians who worked there, who were more than happy to encourage literacy through poetry.

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rufus_foreman 6 hours ago | parent [-]

>> A public library is a third space where ideas can be accessed and exchanged, and a focal point where the community can civically engage

I'm beginning to suspect we have completely incompatible ideas of what a library is.

For me it is mostly about access to books.

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soulofmischief 6 hours ago | parent [-]

A public library is different than a regular library, as an institution it has a rich history in what I've described. You can still access books.

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rufus_foreman 6 hours ago | parent [-]

I'm beginning to suspect we have completely incompatible ideas of what a library is.

	▲	soulofmischief 2 hours ago \| parent [-]
		Yes, and I'm trying to enlighten you on the historical purpose of the institution so that you have a better understanding of what a library is, instead of just relying on a personal feeling or opinion.