The economy is not in a good place. Investment revenue that municipalities were counting on to pay for services is gone. And many taxpayers can't come up with more than they've paid-some have lost jobs, others are on furlough, others have lost their own investment income.
So what must a municipality do? Start to cut services.
Prioritize.
Police: keep.
Fire Service: keep.
Court system: keep.
Infrastructure maintenance: keep.
Libraries.......all too often, libraries are going in the cut column. It hurts my heart to see this happen.
At times of great trouble, we need our libraries even more. Not just for entertainment-although a good book can certainly brighten a day-but for students who are struggling to stay in school and better themselves. For adults who need to learn new skills and find new jobs. For communities who need a center around which to gather. For the statement that we are a literate society-committed to the education of all, and the cherishing of our arts and history. Libraries are not luxuries. It may be difficult to keep the libraries open, but we can not afford let them close.
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