Libraries Without Borders
Broadening the reach of library services in innovative ways
What is a library? Not simply a building. Indeed, librarians can’t always meet the needs of their community within the walls of a building. The United States chapter of Libraries Without Borders aims to remove obstacles to library access across the country. This nonprofit organization works collaboratively with communities to increase access to essential resources and education.
What They Do
Libraries Without Borders U.S. (LWB US) empowers communities by providing accessible information, cultural resources, and learning opportunities. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., Libraries Without Borders has established learning centers across the United States. They primarily serve underserved communities and place their resources in accessible, affordable settings.
Origins
Libraries Without Borders is an international organization. Bibliothèques Sans Frontières (BSF) was founded in 2007 in Paris, France, to provide equitable access to vital information and resources. The U.S. branch has been operating since 2014.
Past Work
LWB US has established learning centers in California, Arizona, Minnesota, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Texas, and North Carolina. They also serve the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. For example, Minnesota’s center provided library resources for mobile home parks. The chapters based in California and Texas offered their library services in laundromats.
Become a Partner
LWB US has a history of successful projects and partnerships around that country that have increased access to books, technology, the internet, and learning opportunities. Now, they are revolutionizing outreach strategies and partnering with public libraries and community organizations to support them outside the walls of their buildings and meet the needs of the communities that are not yet being served. They build custom strategies that meet a community’s needs and leverage its existing assets to increase access to libraries' essential information and services. Visit their website for more information about how your library or organization can build a partnership with LWB US. They are looking to partner with state, county, and city library systems to create broad change across communities.
Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved with LWB US. You can send donations through their U.S. website of financial gifts or books. You can also sign up for their mailing list to hear important updates about the organization and how it serves U.S. communities. If you’re interested in becoming more involved with the organization, volunteer, internship, and career opportunities are also available.
Visit everylibrary.org to learn how you can support the essential resources that libraries offer their communities.
