Navigating Crises: How Public Libraries Support Community Resilience in the Midwestern United States

Public libraries have become critical community hubs that extend beyond traditional informational roles, actively supporting community resilience in times of crisis. This study examines how public libraries in the Midwestern United States adapt and innovate their services to address economic, social, environmental, and health challenges. Based on a mixed-methods approach incorporating a survey of 415 public library directors and semi-structured interviews with 14 library directors across 10 states, the study reveals that libraries provide essential services such as job assistance, digital literacy training, emergency shelter, and public health support. These institutions play a vital role in bridging service gaps for marginalized populations, reinforcing their importance as pillars of community resilience.