Reviews with content warning for Drug use - Overdue: Reckoning with the Public Library

I have always been a huge fan of libraries and have a plethora of wonderful memories participating in the varies summer activities provided by my local library. I have always thought of the library as this perfect place, but "Overdue" thoughtfully challenged that belief and enlightened me on the fact that libraries are not always the picturesque place for those who love reading.
"Overdue" does an immaculate job of covering a wide array of information about libraries: from the history of libraries origins to modern day uses, all with some personal anecdotes from the author's time working in a public library in Washington DC. The beginning of libraries was rife with racism and classism, but as time went on, there were efforts to amend these exclusionary practices. Although libraries have come a long way, there is still so much that needs to be done to truly make the public library as inclusive and helpful to the ENTIRE population. Amanda Oliver really shocked me with her personal anecdotes about some of the rougher encounters she personally experienced at the library, some incidents that caused security to be essential on site.
One element that I was exceptionally interested in was that libraries are often one of the only free places a homeless person can go to in an effort to seek shelter during the day. I am forever fascinated about and seeking to learn more about homelessness, especially in big cities like Washington DC.
This book was incredibly interesting, and a must read for any library lover!

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sjanke2's review

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challenging informative reflective fast-paced

5.0

America's public libraries are often referred to as sanctuaries, beacons of democracy, the people's university. Some call them The Great Equalizer. But libraries are not created or treated equally. In fact, they magnify the economic and social inequality that permeates our communities.

Oliver asserts that while public libraries are given more than enough public praise (read: white guy writes an op-ed), library workers are expected to fill the gaps in our social safety net with little to no training, inadequate equipment, low compensation, and often zero mental or emotional support from administration or medical professionals. As policing becomes more rampant and funding for mental health treatment and emergency shelters dwindles, librarians are expected, if not forced, to become first and second responders to crises like overdoses and violence. Many library workers entered the field to be of service, but many also endure complex PTSD caused by the constant need for vigilance and empathy in public spaces.

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