Jan Holmquist

In 2014, I likened libraries to the hummingbird in a parable about a forest fire.Today, as we face global misinformation and climate change challenges, libraries continue to embody that determined spirit, making a difference one small action at a time. First, let us revisit the legend of the hummingbird:

One day, a long time ago, in a faraway place, or so the legend goes, a huge forest fire raged in the countryside. The animals were terrified. They ran around, screaming, crying, and helplessly watching the impending disaster.

In the middle of the flames, and above the cowering animals, was a tiny hummingbird busy flying from a small pond to the fire, each time fetching a few drops with its beak to throw on the wild flames. It kept repeating this over and over and over again.

After a while, an old grouchy armadillo, annoyed by this ridiculous, useless agitation on the part of the hummingbird, cried out: “Little bird! Don’t be a fool. It is not with those minuscule drops of water one after the other that you will put out the fire and save us all!”

The hummingbird replied, “Could be, but I will do my bit.”

Combating the Infodemic

Just as the hummingbird tirelessly fought the forest fire, libraries are now at the forefront of battling the spread of misinformation. In an era where fake news travels faster than truth, libraries serve as beacons of reliable information and librarians as fact-checkers embedded in their communities.

Information Literacy Programs: Libraries are developing tailored workshops and events to equip patrons with critical thinking skills online and in the libraries. From teaching fact-checking techniques to explaining the peer-review process, these programs empower communities to navigate the complex information landscape.

Facilitating Civil Discourse: Libraries create safe spaces for community discussions, fostering a dialogue that bridges divides often exacerbated by misinformation. Through storytelling events and oral history projects, libraries are helping communities find common ground and build connections.

Championing Sustainability

The hummingbird’s determination to make a difference, no matter how small, perfectly aligns with libraries’ efforts in promoting sustainability. Most importantly, librarians have the skills to empower people to make an impactful climate difference in their everyday lives and actions.

Community Sustainability Initiatives: Libraries promote environmental awareness by going beyond their walls. They organize sustainability events, partner with local environmental organizations, and even create community gardens.

Supporting SDG Research: Public and academic libraries are crucial in advancing research related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Libraries are accelerating progress towards a sustainable future by providing access to cutting-edge research and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations.

Connecting Communities

The hummingbird inspired others to join its efforts. Similarly, libraries continue to be catalysts for community engagement and connection.

Digital Inclusion: Libraries are bridging the digital divide by providing access to technology and digital literacy training, ensuring all community members can participate in our increasingly digital world.

Cultural Programming: Through diverse events and programs, libraries bring people together, celebrate local culture, and foster understanding among different groups.

Collaborative Spaces: Many libraries are reimagining their physical spaces to encourage collaboration, creativity, and community interaction.

As we face the challenges of the 21st century, libraries remain steadfast in their commitment to serving their communities. Like the hummingbird, they continue to do what they can, inspiring others to join the effort. In fighting misinformation, championing sustainability, and connecting communities, libraries prove that small actions, when multiplied, can indeed make a significant impact. The library is still the hummingbird, and its work is more important than ever.

Disclaimer: I just remembered the article from 2014 when I got a lot of Pingbacks on it yesterday. What I first thought was spam turned out to be pingbacks from library students. I reread the old post and thought it needed an update.

Picture: Made with Dall-e prompting with the legend of the hummingbird.