Published: March 17, 2025

Nick Higgins, Chief Librarian of Brooklyn Public Library (BPL), was named to the 2023 TIME100 Next list for his leadership in fighting censorship and book banning. He is the driving force behind BPL’s Books Unbanned initiative, which provides teens nationwide access to the library’s digital collection, and has inspired other libraries to join the movement for intellectual freedom.

The following is an excerpt from our recent Information Gone Wild podcast with Nick.

Q: Can you share a bit about your background and how you ended up in
libraries?
Nick Higgins: I started my career as a high school creative writing teacher and then transitioned to a library trainee program at the Pratt Institute, partnering with Brooklyn Public Library. This led me to work across different branches, gaining invaluable experience in Brooklyn’s 62-branch system. I loved working with people in the community, and that’s what inspired me to stay in the library field.

Q: How do you balance leadership with personal well-being?
Nick Higgins: It’s essential to set boundaries to maintain energy. I make time for personal activities like carpentry and avoid carrying work home. It’s about finding spaces for solitude to recharge.

Q: What are some surprising aspects of leading a large urban library system?
Nick Higgins: The fundamental needs in libraries are similar everywhere—people want to connect, learn, and improve their lives. However, in a large urban area like Brooklyn, there’s a greater immediacy. The barriers between the street and the library can be less distinct, which means libraries often respond quickly to community needs.

Q: Can you give an example of fostering community through library programs?
Nick Higgins: One project that stands out is the “Tell a Story” program. It allows incarcerated parents to record themselves reading books to their children, strengthening family connections despite physical distance. This program has been deeply impactful, allowing families to stay connected, even in challenging circumstances.

Q: What inspired the “Tell a Story” program?
Nick Higgins: The idea grew from my experiences as a jail librarian. Parents in correctional facilities wanted to connect with their children, and libraries were the perfect neutral space to help bridge that gap using technology. It started by bringing incarcerated parents and children together through recorded storytelling, and has now evolved to include real-time video conferences.

Q: How did the “Books Unbanned” initiative get started?
Nick Higgins: In response to rising book bans, Brooklyn Public Library launched “Books Unbanned” in 2022, offering free digital library cards to young people in states with restrictions. The initiative has provided over 11,000  across the U.S., allowing young readers to access banned books and educational resources.

Q: What challenges did you face in launching the “Tell a Story” program and how did you overcome them?
Nick Higgins: There was pushback from within the library and from correctional facilities. Some were uncomfortable with the idea of connecting a library to a correctional facility. However, by framing it as a literacy and relationship-building initiative, we were able to find allies and make the program a success.

Q: How do you keep the creative and innovative ideas flowing in your library system?
Nick Higgins: We foster a culture of trust and flexibility, encouraging staff at all levels to come up with ideas. We have a program called Brooklyn Incubator where staff can pitch new projects and receive micro-grants to develop them. This encourages innovation and responsiveness to community needs.

Q: What advice would you give students and peers in libraries about
collaboration and leadership?
Nick Higgins: Effective collaboration starts with being present in the community. Show up at meetings, listen to people, and build relationships. It’s important to be open-minded, humble, and flexible, especially when working with people who may not share your values or ideas.

Q: How do you keep yourself nimble as a leader?
Nick Higgins: Being present with people is key. I spend time working directly with staff and patrons, getting out of the office as much as possible. This hands-on approach keeps me grounded and helps me stay responsive to the needs of the community.

Q: As a leader, what are your thoughts on building relationships with your
community?
Nick Higgins: It’s about showing up, listening, and being willing to share with others. Great leadership starts with being present and vulnerable with the people you serve. It’s not about having all the answers, but creating spaces where people feel seen and heard.

Q: Can you share any leadership advice for those looking to work in libraries?
Nick Higgins: Understand that leadership in libraries is about creating relationships. Get to know your community, be willing to listen, and always remember that your role is to serve the people who rely on the library. Build trust, be patient, and be flexible.