Women’s History: Women and Libraries

Women’s History: Women and Libraries

Women’s History Month started up as Women’s History Week, first celebrated in Sonoma County in 1978. Through efforts led by the National Women’s History Alliance, the call for national recognition was recognized by the late President Jimmy Carter: Mar 02-08, 1980 became National Women’s History Week. Years later in 1987, Congress moved to designate March as Women’s History Month, highlighting women’s successes in the arts and sciences, military, business, public service and more.

Librarianship has historically been viewed as “women’s work.” Though men tend to have more prestigious jobs, such as academic librarianship or leadership positions, the majority of staff for libraries are women in operational and support roles. Even Library schools were primarily directed by men, but taught by women faculty members. As America expanded west, women trained as librarians were sent out to plant libraries in the new and growing communities, increasing interest in the profession. Through the 1960s and 1970s, women grew empowered to address the remaining gender barriers in librarianship and to celebrate the achievements of women in the field.

The Palm Beach County Library System (PBCLS) owes much of its existence and expansion to women: from the League of Women Voters appealing to the Board of County Commissioners for a county Library service in 1965, to Ingrid Eckler’s (her story is featured on page 5) push for expansion in the decades that followed. To this day, Eckler is honored with a Library science scholarship made in her name, helping future librarians pursue their education.

Florence Biller was the first director of the Palm Beach County Library System serving from 1968-1979. She played a key role in organizing the system, which opened its first branch in Tequesta in 1969. Under her leadership, the County’s first bookmobile service launched shortly after, expanding access to Library services. Biller’s work laid a strong foundation for the Library System, emphasizing outreach and accessibility, ensuring Library resources reached as many residents as possible.