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“A great library cannot be entered by one of refinement in thought and aspiration without a certain feeling of awe. Surrounded by the productions of genius, the elegance of art, the delights of the mind, it is but natural that in the quiet, silent library, reverence should possess the soul.” Richard Skinner, November 1861
Reach the heart of any topic
– Grasp this issue deeply.
– Find what is valid or insightful about each perspective.
– Is there a way that changes assumptions, that all sides can agree with, and that works at the heart level?
The goal is not to determine which side is right, or even to find a solution that satisfies the interests of each side. Instead, try to resolve the contradictions at the level at which they were created and find a resolution that resolves the problem in a deep, lasting way.
Find something good in what you disagree with. Courage, courage, courage!
Learn more about Topics
Goal
What is true about each perspective, and how can we bring these together to understand the best meaning of a public library?
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Perspectives
Perspectives & Resources
Perspectives are short paragraphs summarizing any point of view about the Topic. Explore each View and then vote on it.
Would you like to add a Perspective or Resource to this Topic? Go to theTopic development page.
“Knowledge is power, and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power that knowledge gives.” Thomas Jefferson
Libraries, to me, represent the power of knowledge. Within them are held the collective wisdom of those who have both shaped and transformed the world in which we live from scientists, to activists, to philosophers, to religionists.
Relax, focus. Take a step back and look at the Perspective from all sides. Now, zero in at the center!
What is the Bias?
What assumptions does it make? Whose interests does it serve?
What is your Personal Experience?
How does it make you feel? How do your experiences, privileges, and personal interests affect your understanding of it?
Now, enter the heart
▶ Say something good about what you disagree with, even if there are flaws.
▶ Find causes, not symptoms. Ask what lies at the root.
▶ Have respect for people with different views, insights, and priorities!
Libraries stand for and exemplify something that needs defending: the public institutions that — even in an age of atomization, polarization and inequality — serve as the bedrock of civil society.
What is most important – and true – about each perspective, especially those you disagree with? Taking all this into account, what do you think is most important about libraries?
