Can Libraries Revive Our Civic Culture?

Our democracy needs citizens equipped to confront the many challenges it faces today. No one is better equipped than librarians to renew civic life, build collective knowledge, nurture understanding and empathy, foster partnerships, and share leadership. This talk will outline ways to forge stronger relationships that empower citizens, connect communities, and catalyze participation in a 21st-century democracy. This keynote was part of the 2026 NC LIVE Annual Conference