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With a library you are free, not confined by temporary political climates. It is the most democratic of institutions because no one - but no one at all - can tell you what to read and when and how.

One could always do more, faster and cleverer, but democracy has its own rhythm.

I count myself as one of millions of Americans whose life simply would not be the same without the libraries that supported my learning.

The library is seen as a force for self improvement and the pursuit of knowledge. I fear that in many cases this is no longer true, if it ever was.

Schools and libraries are the twin cornerstones of a civilized society. Libraries are only good if people use them, like books only exist when someone reads them.

The message is clear: libraries matter. Their solid presence at the heart of our towns sends the proud signal that everyone - whoever they are, whatever their educational background, whatever their age or their needs - is welcome.

The library is the temple of learning, and learning has liberated more people than all the wars in history.

In our so-called democracy we are accustomed to give the majority what they want rather than educate them to understand what is best for them.

You know, you don't expect everyone to be as educated as everyone else or have the same achievements, but you expect at least to be offered at least some of the opportunities, and libraries are the most simple and the most open way to give people access to books.