Faith, Freedom, and the Future of Our Public Libraries
Sam Helmick
President, American Library Association
_____________________
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM
St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Cedar Rapids
** in-person event **
In an era dominated by hyper-partisan content and "noise," public libraries remain essential sanctuaries for authentic community connection, intellectual freedom, and the shared right to read. In September, Intersections explores how modern political attacks on public libraries threaten not only our democratic institutions but also the core tenets of religious freedom and civil dialogue. Grounded in a commitment to fiscal responsibility, institutional transparency, and faith-led community stewardship, we will discuss how diverse voices can unite to safeguard libraries as vital spaces for all Iowans.
You may make your reservation to attend in-person (no lunch) by clicking on the "Register Now" button. There is no cost for this option, but we must have your RSVP to ensure we have enough seating.
If you have any issues registering, please email info@interfaithallianceiowa.org or call 515.279.8715.
ABOUT OUR PRESENTER | Sam Helmick (they/them) is a lifelong Iowan with over two decades of dedicated service in the library field, currently serving as the President of the American Library Association and the Community and Access Services Coordinator at the Iowa City Public Library. A former President of the Iowa Library Association and the current Chair of the State of Iowa Library Commission, Sam’s leadership is deeply informed by their Christian faith and a steadfast commitment to the intersection of religious freedom, intellectual liberty, and robust public stewardship. Their advocacy focuses on defending the right to read, resisting administrative overreach, and ensuring that public institutions remain resilient, inclusive, and transparent spaces of grace and discovery for communities across the state and nation.
Intersections is a monthly gathering of the Interfaith Alliance of Iowa in Cedar Rapids. It's an opportunity to learn, to participate in civil dialogue, and to discuss issues at the crossroads of religion and politics.
St. Paul's United Methodist Church
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403