When was the last time you visited your local library? You might be surprised by what’s happening if you haven’t been recently. Ciara Eastell makes a strong case for these places of transformation and possibility, arguing that in an era of fake news and loneliness, we need our libraries more than ever. __ At TEDxExeter 2019 our theme was The Art of the Possible. We’re living in an age of polarity where many communities are feeling more and more divided, against a backdrop of increasingly populist politics which risk dividing us even further. Our talks offer an opportunity to pause and consider the future we want to create, the possibilities that may be obscured in the busyness of our everyday lives, and how we might get there. Find out more about TEDxExeter at www.tedxexeter.com/ TEDxExeter CURATOR: Claire Kennedy - twitter.com/clairekennedy__ PRODUCTION: First Sight Media - twitter.com/firstsightmedia __ Ciara Eastell is Chief Executive of Libraries Unlimited, a charity which runs 54 libraries across Devon and Torbay. One of few librarians to have been honoured with a statue, Ciara is also a national council member of Arts Council England and an advisor to the British Library. She believes in the power of arts, culture and creative industries to benefit civic and community life. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx