This issue of Alki addresses the vital roles libraries play in the communities and networks that exist beyond their doors. From institutions like schools and hospitals to local and national publics, this issue captures the entanglements, challenges, and promise of libraries’ work engaging their communities outside of their usual domain.
Inside this issue, you’ll see the breadth of those roles and networks. Whether it be school funding challenges that affect their libraries, the role of the librarian-advocate in their community, or the difficulty of grappling with politics in and beyond the library, this issue covers a variety of perspectives on how libraries go above and beyond to meet their communities. You’ll also read about under-utilized library networks, like Washington’s Network of Health Information Ambassadors, and how readers’ broader networks, such as social media and culturally inclusive calendars, can make for great recommendations.
Alki Editor-in-Chief: Jenny Van Houdt
Alki Web Editor: Ray Zill
Alki Editorial Committee: Ann Dyer, chair; Mikayla Kittilstved, chair; Julie Graham; Irene Miller; Anna Pedersen; Marisa Petrich; Traci Timmons
Cover photo attribution: Ora L. Maxwell (far right) was a Spokane librarian who in 1915 founded the Spokane Walking Club, which would eventually evolve into the Spokane Mountaineers Club. She is pictured here with other founding members, including Mabel C. Hutchins, Margaret S. Glendining, Ruth Yeomans, and Reba F. Lehman. Photo courtesy of Chic Burge, club historian.
