In the depths of the Great Depression, not a single public library in America closed its doors. Banks went under, farmers went bankrupt, millions of people were out of work and out of luck—but the American public clung to its libraries, not only because of their inherent value to our society, but also because they are symbols of community strength and hope.
Whacking Libraries, Jim Hightower, 2005
During 1929 – 1933, Massachusetts libraries remained open despite budget cuts in the more urban areas.
Throughout the Great Depression, The New York Public Library was able to maintain service seven days per week.
Between 1930-1940, public libraries were founded in 48 of the 50 states and territories. Charles Seavey writes that “the expansion of the American Public Library in the teeth of the Great Depression demonstrates very clearly the importance of the institution to American society.” He also shares an expression that bears noting today:
Libraries will get you through times with no money better than money will get you through times with no libraries.
* See Hilary Davis’s article on Recessions and their Impact on Librarianship for a deeper exploration of this topic.
