Democratic librarianship: the role of the medical library in promoting democracy and social justice

Authors

  • Elaine Russo Martin Director of Library Services, Countway Library, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jmla.2020.852

Keywords:

Erich Meyerhoff, Festschrift, Democratic Librarianship, Medical Library Association

Abstract

Evidence suggests that Erich Meyerhoff was one of the first practitioners of democratic librarianship throughout his long and productive life. This essay defines democratic librarianship in the context of democratic ideals and social justice and posits actions that the profession should be taking to thrive and lead in a multicultural environment, including being a place for active engagement, crucial conversations, and debate. Democratic librarianship is broader than social justice but incorporates social justice ideals in promoting a socially just and democratic society.

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Published

2020-01-02

Issue

Section

Festschrift