The Association of Research Libraries (ARL) has engaged with the Made by Us initiative, a network of hundreds of museums, historic sites, libraries, and archives that aim to become the go-to source for connecting teenagers and young adults with history. And, a key tenet of this invitation to collaborate is “Civic Season.”
Civic Season focuses on a new tradition for self-discovery and civic upskilling for younger generations who have the most at stake. This summer, libraries can work with this important constituency and help amplify credible voices that seek to connect to stories, inspiration, and tools to help them power our democracy.
ARL continues to recognize the invaluable role that libraries play in shaping young minds. With Civic Season, a two-week period that spans Juneteenth to July 4th, over 560 institutions are participating to educate young people about the nation’s history and civic duties. The program connects students to history through events that encourage reflection, action, and a sense of belonging. ARL libraries have the unique opportunity to engage youth by leveraging their vast resources, offering programming, and promoting inclusivity within their communities.
The Civic Season activities include digital resources such as the “Civic Superpower Quiz” and other interactive guides that help young people find their place in the civic landscape. Libraries can join this national movement by hosting events, offering resources, or partnering with other civic organizations.
Focus on Inclusivity and Collaboration
A primary goal of the Civic Season is to create community spaces, or “third spaces,” that foster connection and inclusivity. Libraries are well-positioned to excel in this initiative through spaces of collaboration and shared learning. The 2025 Civic Season encourages libraries to focus on youth-centered programs, especially those that amplify the voices of young people and facilitate intergenerational dialogues.
Get Involved
ARL invites libraries and other civic-centric institutions to engage with the Made by Us initiative and participate in the upcoming Civic Season. By contributing digital and in-person programming, libraries can play a key role in encouraging civic engagement. The opportunities are vast, from educational events to creative collaborations, ensuring that libraries continue to serve as pivotal spaces for learning and community building.
For more information on how to get involved, view our video discussing the importance of the initiative and register for upcoming events via the Made By Us website. Together, we can help build a more engaged and informed next generation of leaders.
About the Association of Research Libraries
The Association of Research Libraries (ARL) is a nonprofit organization of research libraries in Canada and the US whose vision is to create a trusted, equitable, and inclusive research and learning ecosystem and prepare library leaders to advance this work in strategic partnership with member libraries and other organizations worldwide. ARL’s mission is to empower and advocate for research libraries and archives to shape, influence, and implement institutional, national, and international policy. ARL develops the next generation of leaders and enables strategic cooperation among partner institutions to benefit scholarship and society. ARL is on the web at ARL.org.
