Montgomery County Libraries presents: An Evening with Eric Klinenberg Author of Palaces for the People – Named one of NPR’s Best Books
(March 2025) This National Library Week join Montgomery County Libraries for an insightful conversation on how investing in libraries and other shared spaces strengthens social infrastructure, bridges divisions, and shapes the future of democratic societies. On Friday, April 4, at 7 PM, bestselling author of Palaces for the People, Eric Klinenberg, will share his insights on the critical role libraries play in building strong, connected communities at the Upper Dublin Library, 520 Virginia Drive, Fort Washington, PA.
Klinenberg will be in conversation with journalist Randy LoBasso as they explore the power of social infrastructure in strengthening communities, emphasizing the vital role of libraries as shared spaces that foster connection, resilience, and inclusion.
“A comprehensive, entertaining, and compelling argument for how rebuilding social infrastructure can help heal divisions in our society and move us forward.” — Jon Stewart.
An engaging Q&A session and book signing will follow his talk.
Eric Klinenberg is the Helen Gould Shepard Professor of Social Science and Director of the Institute for Public Knowledge at New York University. He is the author of Palaces for the People, Going Solo, Fighting for Air, and Heat Wave. His scholarly work has been published in journals including the American Sociological Review, Theory and Society, and Ethnography, and he has contributed to The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, and This American Life. www.ericklinenberg.com
Randy LoBasso is an award-winning journalist, communications professional, and policy strategist. He leads strategic communication initiatives on issues impacting older adults. His journalism has been nationally recognized, with bylines in The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Guardian, Salon, and more.
