This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. A strong public library helps build a strong, prosperous city. As one of Utah’s oldest cultural institutions, the Salt Lake City Public Library is essential to a vibrant, thriving Salt Lake. City Library CEO Noah Baskett, joins us with more.
Noah Baskett:
Salt Lake City loves its public libraries. Nearly three-quarters of residents are cardholders — which is a remarkable sign of trust and civic pride. At our core, we are about books and literacy: connecting people to stories, ideas and information through books, movies, music, graphic novels, magazines and free digital eBooks and audiobooks — all fine-free for every single Salt Laker.
But today, the Library is more than a place to borrow things. We are a connector across our city. We connect people to resources, to opportunities and to one another — whether through a résumé workshop, a small business class, homework help after school or simply a welcoming space to gather and belong.
And at a time when fewer than half of Utah’s young readers are reading at grade level, our work to build literacy for all ages — especially in our most vulnerable communities — is more urgent and more essential than ever.
Derek Miller:
By connecting people to knowledge, opportunity, and each other, the Salt Lake City Public Library strengthens our city and every neighborhood it serves. Visit SLCPL.org to explore their resources and learn how you can help advance their mission. I’m Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.
