The Seattle Public Library brings people, information and ideas together to enrich lives and build community.
Our Guiding Principles:
Support intellectual freedom
The Seattle Public Library enables all individuals in our community to exercise their right to access constitutionally protected information.
Promote literacy and a love of reading
Recognizing the vital importance of reading to open doors and expand horizons, the Library strives to support every patron in becoming a lifelong reader.
Protect confidentiality of patron records
The Library respects the confidentiality of our patrons' requests for information, the online sites they access, and their borrowing history.
Respect and embrace the entire community
We celebrate Seattle's diversity and strive to ensure that all people feel welcome in the Library. We strive to meet the needs and expectations of every Library patron. The Seattle Public Library actively supports efforts that combat prejudice, stereotyping and discrimination.
Foster a healthy democracy
The Library is committed to building an informed community, and providing neutral ground where participation in civic life is open to all.
Support children and youth
We strive to join parents, educators and young people in helping to raise thoughtful readers and citizens. We recognize the priority of efforts to close educational achievement gaps.
Form strong partnerships
The Library extends its reach and impact in the community through partnerships with individuals, public and nonprofit agencies, community groups, educators and businesses.
Adapt and innovate
To stay relevant to patrons' changing needs and interests, we continuously adapt what we do and how we do it. We are a learning organization and invest in our staff, technology, and infrastructure to improve service.
