Representation and access, today and tomorrow

Maxine Brown-Davis ’74 has loved libraries since her childhood in Wilmington, North Carolina. “I started out with a home library of three books when I was a toddler and it grew from there,” she said. “Libraries have always been important to me because they are launching pads for imagination, information and experiences you wouldn’t otherwise have access to.”

She brings that affinity for libraries to her role on the Friends of the Library Board of Directors at Carolina. Anyone who donates to the University Libraries becomes a Friend of the Library; its board helps raise awareness and funds. Brown-Davis, who joined the board in 2020, said she is proud to share information about the University Libraries with others.

Brown-Davis fears that some people discount libraries because the Internet provides access to so much information. “Technology has a multiplier effect on data and information generation, but it also cheapens events, ideas and creativity for many,” she said. “The Library needs to be ready to use, help create and provide access to information with context and a holistic vantage point for anyone now and in the future.”

She donates to the University Libraries to help keep them technically proficient, user-friendly and abundant in their content. “Sustaining the connections, meanings and actions of humans is critical for continuing to innovate with care for the collective futures of humans and the planet,” said Brown-Davis. “Giving helps the system keep up with the speed of output, now and in the future.”

Read the complete Carolina Story

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