Evening Republican, Volume 23, Number 172, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 19 July 1920 — BOOKS FOR EVERYBODY. [ARTICLE]

BOOKS FOR EVERYBODY.

A critical period confronts library service in the United States in the opinion of library leaders, the Rensselaer Public Library declares. More than half of the nation is deprived of access to free public libraries, and existing libraries in many cases are crippled for lack of financial support. Difficulties are increased by widespread resignations of library workers because of low salaries. Many large city libraries are now forced to give service with greatly depleted staffs, and in numerous small towns libraries have been obliged to close their doors. Public library service will stand still or go backward unless greater public support is forthcoming, and unless librarians and friends of libraries fight for the profession, American Library Association officials declare. At a time when libraries are barely able to meet the routine demands made upon them, the nation needs more library service . than ever before. Ignorance and lack of understanding underly the present industrial and social unrest. Libraries are, among the most potent forces for removing this dangerous condition. The local library has received encouraging reports of progress from the American Library Association regarding the “Books for Everybody” movement, which seeks to raise a $2,000,000 fund for promoting library extension and development. Prominent men and women of the nation now realize the need for standing behind public libraries. Through its “Books for Everybody” movement, the American Library Association will work to create a public sentiment that will adequately support existing libraries and cause libraries to be established where they do not now exist.