Program Description

For Richard  Ashby, libraries are far more than places to borrow books—they are engines of opportunity, trusted community spaces, and pillars of democracy. Known as "The Sidewalk Librarian," Ashby has built his career on the belief that libraries should meet people where they are, extending their reach beyond their walls and into neighborhoods, schools, and public spaces. As Director of the Sharon Hill Public Library and President of the Pennsylvania Library Association—the first Black leader in the organization's 125-year history—Ashby is helping reimagine the role of libraries at a time when they face growing demands, political scrutiny, and financial pressures. In this conversation, we'll explore how libraries are evolving to serve changing communities, why intellectual freedom and equitable access to information matter more than ever, and what it will take to ensure libraries continue to thrive as vital civic institutions in the decades ahead. We’ll also discuss his personal journey to becoming a librarian, and his passion for literacy.

Speaker Bio

Richard E. Ashby Jr. is a nationally recognized library leader, policy advocate, and community connector whose career is rooted in equity, intellectual freedom, and access to opportunity. Widely known as “The Sidewalk Librarian,” Richard believes librarianship must extend beyond brick-and-mortar buildings and into neighborhoods, schools, and community spaces.

“Libraries shouldn’t wait for people to come to us — we should go to them,” he says. “That’s what being a sidewalk librarian is all about.”

Richard currently serves as Director of the Sharon Hill Public Library, where he has transformed the institution into a vibrant community hub. At the state level, Richard serves as President of the Pennsylvania Library Association, making history as the first Black president in the organization’s 125-year existence. In this role, he champions strategic growth, financial stability, workforce sustainability, and statewide advocacy for libraries and library workers.