Library News

Neighborhood Library Dynamos

Purpose: Library Dynamos will provide informed citizen oversight of the proposed transformation of the DC Public Library.

Context: Other cities around the country, have a long history of public oversight of libraries. Seattle is a good example http://www.spl.org/lfa/oversight/oversight.html.

The Public Library, unlike most other DC government agencies, is quasi-independent. It is governed by an unelected, unpaid Board of Library Trustees, appointed by the Mayor.

Activities: Dynamos will convene "study groups" to research and explore other library systems. They will be able to discuss issues with other Dynamos across the city. They will make recommendations to Library and District officials about library renewal. Library Renaissance Project, founded by Ralph Nader, will provide assistance and support through research, dissemination of information, and other means to be identified by the Dynamo groups.

What is in a name? Not every Library Dynamo is called a Dynamo, sometimes participants decided to call them "study groups" or "coalitions" or other names. The coming together of residents, as initiated and sparked by the District Dynamos, mobilizes community-oversight in the spirit of the Dynamos regardless of choice of group title.

How to Become a Dynamo: Anyone of any age who is interested can participate in their neighborhood Library Dynamo, including our DC youth. If you seek community-driven oversight over very critical and central community assets, such as our neighborhood libraries, please Contact Robin Diener at the Library Renaissance Project.



  • Anacostia Branch Library Dynamo
    Anacostia residents have formed a public oversight committee to monitor proposed $12 million library renewal project. Your participation needed.

  • The Shaw Library Study Group (SLSG)
    This group has formed to help maximize the number of diverse Shaw voices in Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library transformation process.

  • The Ward One Library Coalition (W1-LC)
    Sponsored by the District Dynamos to foster community-driven oversight of Ward One Library services and the transformation of the Mount Pleasant Library.

  • The Ward Eight Library Alliance (WELA~DC)
    Sponsored by the District Dynamos to foster community-driven oversight of Ward Eight Library services and the transformation of the Washington Highlands Library.

  • Welcome to the Benning Road Branch Library Dynamo
    Benning Road Library has been closed since December 2004 with no interim services. Ward 7 residents are fighting for more transparency and community oversight regarding their library.

  • West End Branch Library Dynamo
    West End Library is under threat of demolition thanks to "emergency legislation" passed in July 2007. Your energy to save this library needed asap.