Partnering with Libraries: Cornerstones of Democracy

Dear Friends,


Thriving, multiracial democracies need vibrant public spaces—places where people can gather, connect, and have meaningful conversations. But today, studies confirm what many of us already feel: community connection is fading, and loneliness is on the rise.

 

That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a powerful new partnership between Everyday Democracy and the Urban Libraries Council. Thanks to a multi-year $182,000 grant from the American Arbitration Association-International Centre for Dispute Resolution (AAA-ICDR) Foundation, we’re training 50 librarians in multipartial facilitation—our groundbreaking facilitation method designed to balance perspectives and address power imbalances, to promote fair civic participation.


These trained librarians will lead community conversations in 11 cities on critical local issues. This initiative will engage more than 300 people in meaningful civil discourse—strengthening community ties at the local level.


Read on to learn why this work is so critical and how libraries are stepping up to strengthen democracy.


Yours,

Merle McGee, President & CEO

Libraries on the Front Lines of Democracy


Libraries across the country are stepping up to meet the challenges of our time. More than just book havens, they are vital community hubs—promoting informed citizenship, fostering dialogue, and ensuring access to resources that strengthen democracy.


Yet, this essential work isn’t without hurdles. Libraries are navigating misinformation, community conflicts, and decades of disinvestment in public services. This initiative will equip librarians with the skills they need to support their communities, bridge divides, and create spaces for community discourse.

>> Discover how our approach helps facilitators create spaces where all voices are heard, and perspectives are expanded.

Libraries as Catalysts for Community Transformation


We’re honored to collaborate with the Urban Libraries Council (ULC), which has spent over 50 years championing public libraries as essential institutions for civic engagement. Libraries have the power to convene, facilitate, and inspire—and ULC is leading the way in reimagining their role in strengthening democracy.

>> Watch ULC’s Shamichael Hallman share his journey of transforming Memphis’s Cossett Library in his inspiring TED Talk.

Third Places: The Power of Public Spaces in Democracy


The idea of “third places”—informal community spaces for connection and dialogue—has long been essential to democracy. Inspired by the history of English coffee houses, sociologist Ray Oldenburg championed the concept as a key pillar of civic life. Libraries today are stepping into that role, creating spaces where democracy thrives.

>> Explore the history and impact of “third places.”

News & Updates

Facilitate with Intent – Join Our Training!


Want to lead conversations that are inclusive, impactful, and empowering for communities? Our Multipartial Facilitation Training is designed for experienced facilitators looking to enhance their skills in equitable, inclusive dialogue. Over three weeks, you’ll engage in collaborative discussions, reflective exercises, and hands-on practice alongside other committed facilitators. Democracy thrives when every voice is heard. Take the next step in your facilitation journey—reserve your spot today!

Art, Democracy, & Dialogue


Everyday Democracy is teaming up with the Boston Museum of Fine Arts and Tufts University’s Tisch College of Civic Life to present the Arts & Democracy Lab on April 10, 2025—a one-of-a-kind event for hundreds of Boston college students. This interactive experience merges art, dialogue, and civic action to spark empathy, deepen understanding, and amplify young voices in local decision-making. While you may not be in the room, you can still reflect on how art fuels civic action and shapes the world around us. How does art inspire change in your community?

Finding Calm & Cultivating Joy


“When you stop breathing, you stop thinking.” In uncertain times, pausing to reflect and recenter can make all the difference. Building a multiracial democracy requires clarity and resilience—but sustaining the work also means nurturing joy and renewal in our daily lives. “10 Guided Meditations for Tough Times” helps you create space for connection, gratitude, and hope—the energy we need to keep moving forward with intention.


Breathe. Recenter. Choose joy.

Support Civic Dialogue

Everyday Democracy is powered by everyday people – like you. Your contribution today supports civic dialogue at trusted third spaces like libraries, museums, and cultural institutions across the country.
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