Library — A Vital Pillar of Our Society
Nearly four decades ago, my arrival in the United States was marked by a transformative experience — a visit to the local library. It was a moment that left me captivated by the profound role libraries play in our democracy and our local community. Today, as I reflect upon those early days, I am more convinced than ever that libraries stand as one of the most vital pillars of our society. They serve as beacons of knowledge, offering unfettered access to information and education, irrespective of one’s socioeconomic status or geographic location.
I am thrilled to participate in an upcoming event on Sunday, October 29th, from 2 to 4 pm, I’ll be donning my traditional Indian attire and playing the Dhaak at the Howard County Library System’s ‘GLOBAL NEIGHBORS: INDIA’ event. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that weaves us together while highlighting the library’s role as a global connector.
Join me in embracing the power of libraries, not just as repositories of books, but as dynamic hubs that foster inclusivity, learning, and unity. Together, let’s recognize and cherish the invaluable contributions libraries make to our society, our democracy, and our shared future -
“In my world there would be as many public libraries as there are Starbucks.” — Henry Rollins
Neil Ghosh, president of MGR Professional Services, senior advisor to Ousri Family Foundation, and former chief executive officer of SOS Children’s Villages USA, is an advocate for vulnerable children and climate action. He focuses on advancing nimble and agile cross-sector collaboration systems to foster sustainable development.