What's Happening?
Mychal Threets, a former children's librarian from Solano County Library in Northern California, has gained significant attention for his efforts to promote the importance of libraries and literacy. Through
his viral TikTok and Instagram videos, Threets has amassed over 1.8 million followers by sharing his passion for libraries and the joy they bring to communities. His content, which often features tattoos of beloved children's book characters, resonates with a wide audience, emphasizing the sense of belonging libraries offer. In 2024, Threets transitioned from his librarian role to become PBS and PBS Kids' 'resident librarian,' creating literacy-focused social media content. Additionally, he is set to host the reboot of the iconic show Reading Rainbow. Threets is also venturing into authorship with his upcoming children's picture book, 'I'm So Happy You're Here,' scheduled for release in February by Random House. Despite his positive message, Threets addresses challenges in the library world, such as book bans and harassment, advocating for the right to read.
Why It's Important?
Threets' work highlights the evolving role of libraries in society and the power of social media to influence public perception and engagement with literacy. His efforts underscore the importance of libraries as inclusive spaces that foster community and learning. By addressing issues like book bans, Threets brings attention to ongoing challenges in the library sector, advocating for intellectual freedom and access to information. His transition from a traditional librarian role to a media personality and author illustrates the changing landscape of literacy advocacy, where digital platforms play a crucial role in reaching diverse audiences. Threets' story also reflects broader societal shifts towards recognizing and addressing historical inequities, as he draws on his family's experiences with racial discrimination in library access to promote inclusivity.
What's Next?
Threets is poised to continue expanding his influence in the literacy and library advocacy space. With the upcoming release of his picture book and his role in the Reading Rainbow reboot, he is set to reach even more audiences, particularly young readers. His ongoing work with PBS and PBS Kids will likely continue to produce engaging content that promotes literacy and library use. As he addresses issues like book bans, Threets may also become a more prominent voice in discussions about intellectual freedom and access to information. His efforts could inspire other librarians and educators to leverage social media and digital platforms to advocate for libraries and literacy.
Beyond the Headlines
Threets' journey from librarian to media personality highlights the potential for individuals in traditional roles to adapt and thrive in the digital age. His success demonstrates how personal passion and creativity can transform public engagement with important social issues. By using his platform to address both the joys and challenges of librarianship, Threets contributes to a broader conversation about the role of libraries in promoting equity and access to knowledge. His work serves as a reminder of the enduring value of libraries as community hubs and the need to protect and support these institutions in the face of modern challenges.
