A review by megtristao
Overdue: Reckoning with the Public Library by Amanda Oliver

challenging informative

I struggled with this book. I don't disagree with what Amanda Oliver writes here--there are many issues with public libraries, and if you've never worked in a public library (or especially if you're thinking about going to library school), you would probably learn a lot from this book. However, many of the systemic problems in libraries (IMHO) come from being a field of predominantly white women (with mostly white men in leadership roles), so I don't know that I needed to read this book from a white woman. It would be great if publishers would share stories from those who are less represented in the library field who might offer a different perspective. Also, I don't remember finding out until chapter 8 or so that Oliver only worked at a public library for *9 months*. I'm not saying her experience isn't true or valid, but again, I just question the decision to elevate this voice for all public librarians. I have heard other urban public librarians say this book made them feel seen and that they appreciated it, so I can't necessarily recommend or not recommend this book. I just know I found it to be a bit cringey at times.