Dialibra takes its name from two words: dialectics and library. Dialectics because dialectical materialism informs our understanding of the world. Library because we strive to be a resource for communal or self-study and for enjoyment of arts. On our library shelves, you will find reviews of useful or enjoyable works of fiction and nonfiction.

We started this project to address two needs: First, we believe that advancing popular political and philosophical education is not only a good in itself, but also a necessary step towards abolishing capitalism and bringing about socialism. Marx’s remark that “the ideas of the ruling class are in every epoch the ruling ideas”¹ is just as true today, as ownership and control of media publication becomes increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few capitalists. Towards this end, we hope to help study circles and worker movements identify theoretical works that might guide their practical work. Through careful study and criticism we also hope to contribute to worker intellectual production.

Second, we believe that art matters, and that art is political. Art is a human need, it can inspire action and introspection, and it cannot be divorced from its political and historical context. In providing reviews and analysis of fictional works, we hope to help curious readers reflect on political themes in media, and to share our love of art with others.

The philosophical foundations of our community underpins our analysis of theory and literature. Although they can no doubt be discerned from the things we write, we will also list them here: we recognize actually existing socialist projects, from China to Cuba, as liberating efforts; we define class struggle to include gender equality and national liberation movements; we view the masses as intelligent and rational; and we believe that a successful political movement will require a unified theoretical line.