Learning and public libraries

Image from IMLS

Last month when the Chicago Public Library won a National Medal for Museum and Library Service, something in the library's press release jumped out at me:

"Each day at our 80 branches across the City of Chicago we are fostering a passion for learning in our students and community members,” said Chicago Public Library Commissioner Brian Bannon. “It is an honor to receive this award on behalf of the Chicago Public Library’s dedicated staff and volunteers".

The emphasis on learning is mine. I think it's significant because when a major metropolitan public library service (which previously has been recognized internationally ) gets awarded the highest honor in the country, and of all the many things they could choose from to include in their press release, they choose to put the focus on learning, and not information, literacy etc, there's something important there for all public libraries to ponder.