Sent to me this morning by Redcap, another librarian I know:

The tragedy of 11 September 2001 and our subsequent (and future) ordeal as a nation should challenge all of us working in libraries to reaffirm the core values of the library as an institution and the values of those of us serving the public through libraries. At a time of violence and fanaticism, we should remember that libraries stand for an informed and open society pursing the path of peace through knowledge. At a time of intolerance and cruelty, we should remember that libraries are dedicated to tolerance and compassion. For as long as we have enjoyed civilization itself, the library -- as an institution, as a mode of service, as a way of life -- has been dedicated to the work of memory, wisdom, and healing knowledge. It was through the library that civilization was preserved and transmitted in previous eras of barbarism and slaughter. Throughout the history of this great nation, especially since the rise of the free public library movement in the mid-19th century, the library has embodied a persistent democratic ideal: a belief in, and a commitment to, the intrinsic value and dignity of each and every citizen. In this time of national challenge, it is more important than ever that the library community reaffirm its core commitment to knowledge, democracy, moral and intellectual value. We in the library field serve an ancient and ever-new institution: the library, repository and enabler of knowledge, value, and dreams -- and civilization itself.

Dr. Kevin Starr
State Librarian of California