The Defense Department recently celebrated Military Libraries Week, honoring the contributions of military libraries to service members, their families, and the defense community. Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks highlighted the theme “Leaders Are Readers,” emphasizing the role libraries play in continuous learning and professional development. With over 300 libraries worldwide, the Defense Department provides resources ranging from military doctrine to recreational media for service members.
The Combined Arms Research Library at Fort Leavenworth exemplifies the importance of military libraries, serving as a resource and refuge for the community, including students of the Command and General Staff College. Founded alongside the college, the library began with a modest collection and faced challenges until 1906 when its first official librarian, Ezra Fuller, advocated for improvements. Over the years, CARL evolved to meet the needs of the U.S. military, incorporating modern resources like online databases and digital catalogs.
Library Director Tiffany Zink’s story exemplifies the dedication of CARL’s staff and the personal connections military libraries foster. Zink, a daughter of a career Navy officer, joined CARL in 2004, and after briefly leaving, returned to serve as the library’s director. CARL plays a critical role at Fort Leavenworth, supporting academic programs and preserving military history. Zink is proud of CARL’s efforts to foster information literacy and the recent renovation that modernized the facility while maintaining its status as a central hub for military knowledge.
Deputy Secretary Hicks acknowledged the contributions of libraries and librarians to morale and readiness during Military Libraries Week, emphasizing the importance of supporting military families. The Defense Department’s focus on promoting knowledge and resilience through libraries aligns with its mission to care for service members and their families. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for service members includes supporting professional and personal growth through educational resources like military libraries.
