In a recent New York Times op-ed, sociologist Eric Klinenberg writes that in order to restore civil society, there’s no better place to start than with your local public library.

“Libraries are being disparaged and neglected at precisely the moment when they are most valued and necessary,” Klinenberg writes.

The piece is adapted from his new book Palaces for the People: How Social Infrastructure Can Help Fight Inequality, Polarization and the Decline of Civic Life.

Ji Suk Yi of the Chicago Sun-Times talks to Klinenberg about how strong social ties and social infrastructure can improve American society. We also take calls from listeners.

GUEST: Eric Klinenberg, author and sociologist at New York University

LEARN MORE: Opinion: To Restore Civil Society, Start With The Library (New York Times 9/9/18)