Dear friends,
In 1969, Sir Kenneth Clarke’s remarkable television series “Civilization” premiered on the BBC. After touring us from the collapse of Rome through the Romantics of the 19th century, Clarke ends the series with this personal reflection:
“I believe that order is better than chaos, creation is better than destruction. I prefer gentleness to violence, forgiveness to vendetta. On the whole knowledge is preferable to ignorance and sympathy more important than ideology… Above all, I believe in the God-given genius of certain individuals, and I value a society that makes their existence possible.”
As we enter into 2026, I think it’s important that we keep Clarke’s words at the forefront of our minds. Of course, I have a privileged position from which I can view this mantra lived out every day through the incredible work of the Houston Public Library.
What other space in our civil society so freely and expertly helps individuals to flourish intellectually? What other institution encourages the free and public exchange of ideas through which we grow closer to one another? Which other group outside of our librarians, clerks, archivists, and curators are so deeply committed to unbridled exposure to information that creates rather than destroys? That offers hope and connection in the face of unbearable isolation? The Houston Public Library is that place for the people of this city and remains a critical thread in the fabric of America’s free society.
YOU are a critical part of this endeavor.
In this New Year, I invite you to reflect on how we each might play a part in promoting creation over destruction; to offer forgiveness over vendetta; to prioritize knowledge and sympathy over forces that would divide us.
Finally, I invite you to reflect on the critical role the Houston Public Library plays in building a stronger, freer, more sympathetic and more educated Houston. From every walk of life, Houstonians come to the public library because it lives up to that charge outlined by Clarke: it is the excellence inherent in our democracy because it offers each one of us a chance to flourish. The creators, explorers, lifelong learners, entrepreneurs, and book lovers of Houston all have a home in the Houston Public Library.
You have recognized and invested in the value of this free space for all, of this institution that welcomes each person seeking a better, more fulfilling life. For your support, I offer my profound thanks.
Please know of my best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2026 where we prioritize sympathy, knowledge, and the freedom to pursue great and good endeavors together. I remain,
With every best regard,
Nick Sawicki
Executive Director