American Libraries Dewey Decibel Podcast

All eyes are on Washington D.C., this week with the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act on March 10. The relief checks for Americans, money for state and local governments, child tax credits, and vaccine funding contained within the bill make headlines, but the bill also affects much more of American life, including libraries. But how did that happen? How are libraries represented in US government? On this special bonus episode of Call Number with American Libraries, we look at library legislation and more at this particular moment in history. Shawnda Hines, assistant director, communications, at the American Library Association’s Public Policy and Advocacy Office, speaks with Congressman Andy Levin (D-Mich.), a tireless library supporter, about his work on library legislation, including the Build America’s Libraries Act that was introduced in the House on March 3. They also discuss how best to advocate for your library at the state and national level and more.