Former Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden Breaks Silence on Trump Firing, Defends Libraries as ‘Bastions of Democracy’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Carla Hayden, the first woman and the first African American to hold the esteemed position of Librarian of Congress, has spoken out publicly for the first time since her abrupt dismissal last month by President Donald Trump.

Dr. Hayden’s departure, communicated via email without explanation, has drawn significant attention and criticism, particularly from within the library science community and academic circles. Her firing is being highlighted as one of several recent instances in which President Trump has moved to remove leaders of cultural institutions and non-partisan federal agencies, raising questions about political influence over bodies traditionally considered independent.

Speaking Out on Sunday Morning

Breaking her silence in an interview with national correspondent Robert Costa for “Sunday Morning,” Dr. Hayden detailed the circumstances surrounding her dismissal. She described receiving the notification via email last month, a method that underscored the unexpected and unexplained nature of the termination. While she did not offer extensive personal commentary on the decision itself, her willingness to discuss it publicly signals a desire to address the situation directly.

Challenges for the Library of Congress and Nation’s Libraries

Beyond her own departure, Dr. Hayden used the interview as a platform to address the broader challenges currently confronting the Library of Congress, one of the world’s largest and most important repositories of knowledge, as well as libraries across the United States.

These institutions, she noted, are grappling with evolving digital landscapes, funding uncertainties, and the critical task of preserving vast collections while simultaneously making them accessible to the public. The leadership of the Librarian of Congress is seen as crucial in navigating these complexities and advocating for the continued relevance and support of libraries.

Libraries as “Bastions of Democracy”

A central theme of Dr. Hayden’s comments was her fervent belief in the fundamental role libraries play in a democratic society. She passionately described libraries as “bastions of democracy,” emphasizing their function as neutral spaces providing access to information for all citizens, regardless of background or belief. This access, she argued, is essential for informed civic engagement and the health of democratic processes.

Her statement comes at a time when libraries nationally face increased scrutiny and challenges related to collection development, censorship debates, and their role in community life.

Championing the “Freedom to Read”

Closely linked to her view of libraries as democratic strongholds is Dr. Hayden’s staunch defense of the “freedom to read.” She underscored its importance as a bedrock principle, asserting that unrestricted access to a wide range of ideas and perspectives is vital for individual growth and societal progress. This freedom, she suggested, is increasingly under pressure in various forms.

Her advocacy for the “freedom to read” resonates deeply within the library profession, which views intellectual freedom as a core ethical responsibility.

Support from the Profession

In the wake of her dismissal, Dr. Hayden has received an outpouring of support from librarians, academics, and advocates for cultural institutions across the country. Statements and letters from professional organizations and individuals have lauded her tenure as Librarian of Congress, highlighting her efforts to modernize the institution, increase accessibility, and raise its public profile. The swift and unexplained nature of her firing has prompted concerns about the political independence of the Library of Congress and other federal cultural and scientific bodies.

Many supporters view her removal not just as a personnel decision, but as potentially indicative of a broader trend impacting institutions dedicated to preserving knowledge and fostering open inquiry. Their vocal support underscores the high regard in which Dr. Hayden is held within her field.

Unanswered Questions Remain

As Dr. Hayden begins this new chapter following her unexpected departure, questions linger regarding the precise reasons behind President Trump’s decision to remove her via email without public explanation. Her tenure, which began with bipartisan support, saw efforts to digitize collections, improve technology, and enhance the Library’s engagement with the public.

While Dr. Hayden has now provided her perspective on the circumstances and the vital role of libraries, the full implications of her dismissal for the future leadership and direction of the Library of Congress, and for the relationship between the executive branch and non-partisan cultural institutions, remain subjects of ongoing observation and discussion.