By Branden Ferguson

An iconic landmark that has served the learning and greater community for nearly 60 years, the nationally ranked William T. Jerome Library at Bowling Green State University was the inaugural stop on the American Library Association’s nationwide “We All Belong” library tour.

As the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals, the ALA has been the trusted voice of libraries for more than 140 years, advocating for the profession and the library's role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all.

As part of the association's "We All Belong" tour, ALA President Cindy Hohl is visiting libraries across the country, highlighting the impactful work libraries and librarians do to foster connections and impact their communities. Focusing on intellectual freedom, literacy, learning and leadership, Hohl spoke with campus members and librarians from across the state about the importance of libraries and librarians in their communities.

"The role of a librarian is a humble position in the community, but we are the helpers of society," said Hohl. "It's important that libraries are supported as we continue to welcome everyone through our doors and provide them with the resources and materials they need for learning, research and exploration."

As an advocate for Indigenous representation in libraries, Hohl actively promotes the inclusion of marginalized communities in the library profession and commended Ohio as one of the best in the country at promoting library accessibility. As dean of University Libraries at BGSU, Sara Bushong strives for that same inclusive environment.

"We want the library to be a place where everyone feels they belong and can come together to learn, collaborate and share information," Bushong said.

Built in 1965, the Jerome Library houses over 7 million items of various formats and provides access to various digital resources. In addition to study and collaboration spaces, the library is home to multiple special collections and academic support services.

"The library is here to provide students the space needed to study," said Bushong. "Students have access to academic resources and tutoring, faculty and students have access to endless amounts of information needed for conducting research, and our employees serve as informational specialists for the entire learning community."