Sarah Johnson is a library science educator and social worker. She joins me to explain the evolving role of public libraries in modern society.

Sarah highlights how libraries have transformed from quiet book repositories into vibrant community hubs addressing diverse needs, from providing Wi-Fi and e-resources to offering social services like legal aid, health information, and even showers for unhoused individuals. Sarah explains that libraries are often the last free public spaces where people can gather without needing to spend money, making them essential yet increasingly complex environments.

Sarah also shares her unique career path from social work and massage therapy to academic librarianship, emphasizing ...