Vote Ya'll

Librarians have all heard the Ranganathan's 5 Laws:

1. Books are for use.
2. Every reader his or her book.
3. Every book its reader.
4. Save the time of the reader.
5. The Library is a growing organism.

To most people these five points state the obvious--but this philosophical quintet represents basic principles in the democratic ideal. [clarification: the following is my interpretation of the democratic ideals represented in Ranganathan's Laws]

1. Every person has the free will to use his/her mind to develop original ideas concerning his/her world. One of the most patriotic things the individual can do is to think.
2. The individual has the inalienable right to his/her own opinion--it is called intellectual freedom. Theoretically, in a democracy, the individual is given the freedom to expand their intellectual horizons and (in the case of a democratic republic) protected so as to better express popular (and unpopular) ideas.
3. Because every individual flourishes in an intellectually stimulating environment--every ideal/thought/passion has its thinker (even the unpopular ideals/thoughts/passions)--and to better understand the principles that are encompassed by the society's social contract the individual needs to recognize differences do exist (and to take away the ability to have independent thought dismantles the social contract).
4. In a democratic society, the individual's, intellectual freedom must be protected.
5. Because a democracy is rule by the people, it is constantly changing and growing. Human nature can stifle democracy because of the individual's fear of change (growth is change). Individuals must master their fears or risk hindering the growth of a healthy democracy.

Ultimately libraries are miniature democracies. And, perhaps on some level we all recognize it--that is why, in so many cities, people are going to libraries to cast their votes on Nov. 2.
An interesting side note, both the presidential candidates will have librarianship represented as part of their election night festivities. President Bush will have First Lady/Librarian Laura by his side and Senator John Kerry will be waiting for the election results in the square in front of the Boston Public Library.

Remember to educate yourself on the issues and candidates and vote November 2.

You'll be making your librarian proud!