by Donna Chanderpaul-Singh, Librarian II, TAMCC
This is the third part of the series “Why do libraries still matter today?” The series started with a historical sketch of libraries and their roles. Part 3 discusses the library’s role in community building.
As long as people have existed, there have been communities of some kind. What is a community? The online Merriam-Webster Dictionary (2025) has 3 sections, each with subsections, to define the word “community.” All the definitions point to people, groups, or societies that share the same interest(s). For this article, I chose the first definition, which states that a community “is a unified body of individuals.” Despite the many nuances of the word, humanity is the common thread. So how do libraries build communities?
As lofty as it sounds, a library can be likened to a miniature utopia of sorts. It is built on human rights values, though, and, like any other organisation, it experiences issues. Of all the different types of libraries, a public library’s mandate allows it to implement these noble values to the greatest extent. Diversity, inclusion, and equity are not new concepts in libraries. Before the Sheila Buckmire Memorial Library closed its doors, I had been a longstanding member. Almost every time I visited (which was often), I saw a particular homeless person ensconced in there reading the newspapers. Judging from his contented expression, I doubt anyone ever asked him to leave. He always looked like he had every right there (he surely did!). Few other institutions would allow such access.
A library is generally synonymous with books and information, but in reality, it’s people; it’s about connecting people to information. Even though we enjoy many benefits of technology, isolation is one of its adverse effects, a major one at that. Excessive use of technology can lead to or aggravate physical and mental issues. In recognition of these emerging issues, some libraries redesign their spaces and programs to support mental well-being and physical health. Community building mitigates numerous ills of our digital society. Within the walls of many libraries, diverse communities flourish — book clubs, writing clubs, art groups, coding groups, music groups, cultural programmes and many more. These activities encourage people to connect through shared interests.
The TAMCC library has long been practising community building. Library staff interact closely with the college community. In fact, we designed a Fun & Games segment to interact informally with the college’s students, staff, and faculty. We host these sessions at various times throughout the academic year, such as during Christmas, Library Week, and sometimes just before exams, to allow students to de-stress. Connecting directly with students and faculty in the classroom is another work in progress, achieved through hosting research skills and other information sessions. The library has facilitated classroom sessions in the Department of Teacher Education at TAMCC, on topics including APA Format, Digital Storytelling, and Creating Professional Portfolios online. In the spirit of inclusion, TAMCC Library has not neglected the wider Grenadian community.
During Marryshow Week (1st week of November), our library executed its 7th Gilda Campos Outreach programme at the St George’s Methodist School in Queen’s Park. Previous outreach visits included the senior citizens’ home in Richmond Hill, the Dorothy Hopkins Home for the Disabled, and the South St George Government School. On these visits, the staff always bring gifts — a book by a Grenadian author, if it’s a school, stationery and other useful items. Each outreach session lasts approximately an hour and includes activities such as reading, singing, games, and motivational speaking.
Despite changing times, a library continues to seek ways to support its community. Not only does it provide a genuine welcoming mat to all who enter, but it also extends outreach to those on the outside. Above all, it strives to promote respect among people, and respect is the glue that binds community!
