In the book "All My Puny Sorrows" by Miriam Toews, a character named Elf emphasizes the importance of libraries as the foundation of civilized society. He suggests that access to books and knowledge through libraries plays a critical role in fostering education, cultural development, and community growth.

This statement underscores the idea that libraries are vital institutions that support the intellectual and moral fabric of society. By providing free access to information, libraries help preserve democracy and ensure that knowledge is available to everyone, promoting a more enlightened and cohesive community.