1. United States
2. Kan.
3. Letter

Libraries are pillars of an informed and engaged democracy, yet their funding remains vulnerable to political attacks and budget cuts. In the face of regressive agendas seeking to undermine public institutions, we must steadfastly defend robust library funding. Libraries provide invaluable services that uplift communities – promoting literacy, education, intellectual freedom and access to information for all. These public spaces foster connections, enable discovery, and drive personal growth. Preserving libraries protects society's fundamental right to knowledge and strengthens the very foundations of an open, pluralistic society. We call for increased investments in libraries to safeguard these vital community assets against those who would defund and diminish them.