Ashlie (she/her) is an educator, librarian, and writer. She is committed to diversifying the reading lives of her students and supporting fat acceptance as it intersects with other women’s issues. She's also perpetually striving to learn more about how she can use her many privileges to support marginalized groups. Interests include learning how to roller skate with her local roller derby team, buying more books than she'll ever read, hiking with her husband and sons, and making lists to avoid real work. You can find her on Instagram (@ashlieelizabeth), Twitter (@mygirlsimple) or at her website, www.ashlieswicker.com.
I have a deep obsession with library wearables. Before I even achieved my goal of becoming a school librarian, I loved supporting my public library and even chose the community I wanted to live in based on the local librarians. Now, more than ever, I am so proud to be among the punk-ass book jockeys. I revel in the power of providing safe spaces where people can seek answers. I get a thrill from letting someone pile up a stack of books and carry them home without having to pay a penny. I realize the impact of hosting community events like magic shows, story times, and crafting opportunities. I see the work it takes to constantly advocate to keep school and public libraries open, funded, and running smoothly. Being a librarian is a job that, at first glance, is a cute way to be around books and reading. In actuality, this public service career is a sometimes-slog that allows you to fight for your ideals daily.
Speaking of ideals, the overlap between library workers/supporters and people who are concerned by the rise in fascist and anti-democratic acts in America is pretty significant. It’s hard to champion free access to knowledge and support your community while being unbothered by book banning, immigrant bashing, or the targeting of marginalized groups. Wearing library merch in and of itself gives a hint towards your values, and finding pieces that outright denounce dehumanization is a bonus.
Of course, there is much more to fighting fascism than library wearables. Sporting shirts, hats, pins, and stickers is not going to communicate to politicians or raise funds to support people reeling from the effects of recent policies. Everyone needs to commit to an action item. It is true, however, that wearing something that identifies you as a safe space can be deeply comforting, especially to people who have to spend most of their time in public deciding who will treat them humanely. If I, a middle-class, cis, white woman, am instantly relieved when I see a pronoun pin or a Black Lives Matter shirt, how will that read to truly marginalized people? Of course, your lived actions have to match the message you’re sending with your clothes. That is work only you can do.
Below, I’ve gathered library wearables that let you speak your mind without saying a word. Let people know you love the library, and let them know you will fight to make sure libraries are for everyone, with liberty and justice for all.
Not all library lovers like it loud, and these sweet drop earrings are an understated signal that the house of books is where you belong. Little Book Earrings, $6+
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This cute pin may remind you of the library of your youth. Are you lucky enough to remember sliding that date due card into the little pocket? The hearts might as well be in my eyes. Library Card Hearts Enamel Pin, $12
This vintage-looking pinback button takes it even farther back, depicting a New York Public Library stamp from days gone by. NYPL Library Stamp Pinback Button, $9
Library love can come at any age, but there is something special about children’s libraries and the sweethearts who frequent them. This toddler shirt is a must-buy. Local Library Lover Kids Shirt, $28
The sweet sparkle of these acrylic earrings adds some flair to the library love. This accessory complements the look of every library enthusiast. Date Due Library Card Earrings, $15
An award made of books? Proclaiming the praises of a place full of books? I adore this little pin Library Enthusiast Enamel Pin, $11
This sentiment is not unique, but the whimsical font and delicate stars drew me. Available in several colors, you can choose the hat that works with your wardrobe. Support Your Local Library Ball Cap, $24
Libraries are for everyone! It’s a joy to find a wearable that celebrates Spanish! Bibliotecaria Shirt, $32
I love the vintage-looking vibe of this illustration and font. This call to action is, sadly, quite timely. Defend Our Public Libraries T-Shirt, $32+
Another great hat, this one singing one of my favorite tunes. Mixing support of literacy with a ringing reminder that the last words of that pledge mean something, this message packs a punch. Embroidered Literacy and Justice For All Hat, $16+
Subtlety is out the window with this important message. I love how even the model is serious in the image. The concept of libraries alone runs counter to the isolating and ignorant ideals of fascism. Get your library card and FIGHT. Fight Fascism Get Your Library Card Shirt, $34+
Hopefully, you’ve found something you’d like to drop into your cart. Looking for more library goods? Check out this list of Pride-forward goods and these bookish gifts for fellow punk-ass book jockeys! Happy shopping!
English (US) · 