| This multi-site case study examined the role of two rural community libraries in the education of adults and in promoting social connectedness. This study also examined the role of the rural librarian as a community leader. The findings suggested that the two libraries were more than repositories of information but gave access to resources that facilitated their patrons and their communities' growth and development; and gave both patrons and library workers a sense of identity and belonging. This key finding of the study suggests that rural libraries may be an engine for building important social capital in rural communities. The social capital is likely to be generated by the library staff and programs; the study suggested that rural librarians may be community leaders, facilitators, resources, and educators---in addition to their typical role of librarian.;The rate of change in rural America has significant negative implications for the development of rural community social capital. Rural America has been undergoing a gradual but steady change (Jean 2006), and with the rural rebound and the back to rural migrations, rural communities are becoming more heterogeneous. This type of change--- population growth, increased diversity, and development---has typically challenged the development of social cohesion and a sense of community. Social capital, the important glue that holds people together, is threatened. In addition, the economic conditions of the country have created a challenge for public services, educational institutions, and social service agencies. Typically, rural communities receive less attention and resources than their bustling counterparts (USDA, 2010). To understand part of these challenges to rural communities, this study sought to focus on one resource---the community library---to examine how the library facilitated adult learning and social connectedness. Using the theoretical framework of critical pedagogy, with an emphasis on Freire (1970, 1985) this study examined the role of the community library in two southeastern rural communities.;The findings highlight the need for continued resource allocations to rural libraries, and justify the investment in terms of increased social capital, social connectedness, and community vitality. Further, the study raises important questions about the differences between urban and rural libraries. Future studies can examine specific differences as one way to understand the connections between library, social connectedness, and social capital. Finally, there are implications for library science curriculum and practice, as well as the discipline of adult education. |
