Drawn to the Library!
Finding My Place in the Safe Routes Movement
National Library Week celebrates the valuable role that libraries, librarians, and library workers play in our communities. Visit the National Library Week website to learn more about this year’s theme “Drawn to the Library!” and how you can support your local libraries.
When I joined the Safe Routes Partnership seven years ago, it was hard not to feel like an outsider, be it a very welcomed one, in the Safe Routes movement. Having never worked in transportation and not being super into walking and biking, I had to figure out how an “indoor enthusiast” who loves books and art could meaningfully contribute to a transportation organization.
With the help of friendly colleagues and passionate community partners, I started to find my way. I learned transportation lingo. I created community engagement activities that merged my love of arts with Vision Zero initiatives. I even bought a new bike helmet on the off chance I decided to take a ride (admittedly still sitting in my basement). Then, Safe Routes to Libraries happened.
Libraries have always been a big part of my life. As a child who was not particularly outgoing or outdoorsy, I felt most at home surrounded by books and reading in cozy corners. The library opened up new possibilities and adventures that I could only experience through the pages of a book. I could be anyone, I could go anywhere, and I could feel safe exploring the world through someone else’s footsteps. As an adult, I have gone on a few real-life adventures and I enjoy long scenic strolls, but reading is still my favorite activity.
The emergence of Safe Routes to Libraries, which aims to increase safe, equitable access to public libraries, is an exciting development in my own Safe Routes journey. In 2022, I was fortunate enough to connect with librarian extraordinaire and Safe Routes champion Noah Lenstra of UNC Greensboro who leads Let’s Move in Libraries. He inspired me to pilot a StoryWalk project in partnership with the DC Public Library to spread traffic safety messages to the local community. In 2024, the Partnership began working on an IMLS grant, with Urban Libraries Council (ULC) as the lead agency, to create a formal Safe Routes to Libraries framework. Since then, I’ve learned more about the expansive work of public libraries, including several transportation-related projects, and have gotten to know the dedicated people who make libraries such special places. Through all of these experiences, I also found a place for myself in the Safe Routes world. I didn’t have to plan for a “someday, maybe” bike ride just to fit in. I already had a personal connection to this movement: walking to my local library.
I am a regular visitor to my local branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore. Nestled between several diverse neighborhoods, Waverly Library is a true community hub where it’s common to see toddler Storytimes, student study sessions, craft afternoons, and cell phone assistance for older adults. People can travel there by walking, biking, rolling, driving, scooting, and taking the bus. There is certainly room for improvement but I acknowledge that these travel options are not available in every community and I am lucky to have access to them. More importantly, I want everyone to have access to them. A safe route to a library means access to food pantries and fitness classes. to bike racks and ballot drop-off boxes, and even to life-saving healthcare. Libraries keep us safe, active, and connected to our communities, and we must ensure that they remain open and accessible.
So this National Library Week, let’s celebrate what draws us to the library and take action to ensure routes to libraries are safe and easily accessible to everyone. Here are three ways to get involved:
- Visit your local library. There is so much to do besides check out books - take a class, make free copies, or just hang out and enjoy the space. Library staff would love to welcome you.
- Get a library card. September is Library Card Sign-Up Month — and it’s never too early to prepare for it.
- Support Safe Routes to Libraries. Share stories, talk to decision-makers, and get involved in your community.
Visit the Safe Routes to Libraries webpage for more information on the amazing work libraries are doing across the country!