More Than a Building

 

Political polarization. A global pandemic. Social uprisings. Censorship campaigns. Viral disinformation. And now attacks on and threats to public servants, including library workers and volunteers. The Illinois Library Association is committed to working across our association and in partnership with librarians, libraries, and organizations across the state to support workers, engage with our communities, and advance the public good.

First, we must ensure the safety and security of library workers, library volunteers, and the communities we serve. When a threat arises, safety and healing are paramount and, as a community, we stand together to care for each other and stand up for the core values of our profession.

Then, we must stand with our communities to declare that Illinois libraries are More Than a Building. We are an ecosystem that nourishes ideas, advances opportunity, bolsters democracy, and fosters community. Through unprecedented challenges, we remain resilient and steadfast in working within and beyond our profession to ensure that libraries continue to fulfill their missions while caring for the people who carry out that work every day.

The More Than a Building campaign celebrates libraries as the hearts of their communities and honors those who keep that heart beating strong. ILA has gathered information and resources to support and unite the library community, and to activate stakeholders to take action in support of their libraries. 

Working Together for Safe and Secure Libraries

More Than a Building Toolkit
Library Supporters Toolkit

* Having trouble accessing the resources information? Please contact the ILA office at ila@ila.org if you are an Institutional Member or a Personal Member.

The Library Supporters Toolkit can be linked directly from your library's website. Join us in letting all Illinoisans know why our libraries are More Than a Building.

More Than a Building is made possible by support from the Illinois State Library using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act.

iREAD Summer Reading Programs

Since 1981, iREAD provides high quality, low-cost resources and products that enable local library staff to motivate children, young adults, and adults to read.

Visit the iREAD website »