June 2024 | Volume XLII, Issue 2 »

Editorial: More Than a Building

June 3, 2024
Illinois Library Association

When we heard about the initial bomb threat targeting a library, we were speechless, pondering the state of the world. With subsequent threats emerging, the pressing question arose: what action could we take in response?

We quickly engaged with those directly impacted—the library directors and staff members—and collaborated with our partners at  the Association of Illinois School Library Educators (AISLE), Illinois Heartland Library System (IHLS), Reaching Across  llinois Library System (RAILS), and the State Library.Together, we recognized the need for resources to aid both those currently affected and those potentially at risk.

After several months of dedicated effort, we proudly unveiled the “More Than a Building” campaign, a sister initiative to our previous endeavor, “Bigger Than a Building.” 

More Than a Building is more than just a campaign, it’s a resource that provides comprehensive information and tools for library leadership, staff members, volunteers, and community advocates. Information and resources are separated into four categories: Actionable Steps, Communication, Talking Points, and Resources. There are also two toolkits offering a plethora of information and actionable steps library allies and advocates can take within their communities.

We understand that this collection of resources isn’t exhaustive, but it serves as an excellent launching pad. We’re eager to hear your thoughts on the campaign and whether you have found any of the resources useful. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at tjenkins@ila.org. Share your feedback on what aspects of the campaign you appreciated, what didn’t resonate with you, what worked well, what didn’t, and, crucially, how we can enhance our efforts to better support you in this realm. 

We know these last few years have been tremendously challenging, and we are proud to serve you and are here to support you.

To view the More Than a Building campaign visit www.ila.org/advocacy/more-than-a-building.

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