Library Land's New Chapter
At the Newton Free Library
When Adam and I met at the Newton Free Library on November 28, 2017, we had no idea it would put us on a new and completely unexpected path. We met at the library to discuss plans for our PR business, SharpOrange, because it was roughly equidistant for both of us. We had such a positive experience that we decided to do it again. And we did, over and over and over at one wonderful library after another.
It didn’t take long for casual visits to different libraries to morph into an attempt to visit all of the libraries in Massachusetts. We quickly recognized what amazing places these were, and the seed of what became the Library Land Project was planted. It has continued to grow and flourish, and we’re excited to share the next chapter in the Library Land story.
Earlier this year, the Library Land Project became a 501(c)(3). Receiving this designation has meant many things for the Project - including the creation of a board of directors, the ability to fundraise, and the opportunity to think about new ways to support public libraries. It also allowed us to codify our mission: to explore, document, and promote public libraries in order to educate people on the essential role these institutions play in our communities.
Let me share a little bit about our board - you can find their bios on our About page. Eric Davies, whom I worked with many years ago, serves as our chair. He is a clear-thinking, level-headed person who understands what we are trying to accomplish. Monique Byrne is a musical friend of mine - and an attorney who helped us create the nonprofit corporation. She is also a big library booster. Deborah Spratt is someone we met on our Library Land travels. Deb is the director of the Lawrence Library in Pepperell, Mass. When we visited, we were impressed by the scope of things Deb and her team were doing - much of it on a shoestring budget. It offered an inspiring view of what a small library could accomplish with great leadership and strong community support. Sandy Ho is an amazing person who brings important perspectives to our little band. A disability researcher and activist, Sandy is deeply committed to public libraries and their role as civic spaces accessible to all.
The fundraising piece is also important. The Library Land Project has been a labor of love for Adam and me - and we really enjoy everything about our adventures, the people we’ve met, and all the things we’ve learned along the way. Developing the structures and systems to better highlight libraries' essential role and increase the time and energy we can devote to the Project are priorities. We’re looking at expanding our research, consulting, and sharing best practices as we continue to stand up and speak out for libraries’ critical role in issues like workforce development, civic engagement, equity, and understanding. If you have the motivation and means, please, visit our Support page and chip in if you can. You can read more in the press release we shared today.
During one of the craziest years, the Library Land Project - and becoming a nonprofit and working with this board - is one of the truly bright spots. Adam and I have restarted visiting libraries (observing social distancing and other safety protocols). We’re hopeful that in the coming months, we’ll be able to ramp activities to our pre-pandemic level. Hopefully, you’ll continue to follow us and support the libraries we all love so well!