I love libraries. They are one of the first places we visit when exploring a new town. They say a lot about who and what a town cares about. Much like public schools, our South Hadley library says to me that we value children of all ages as they are invited to play, learn, hear stories, experiment, read, explore and enjoy mini-concerts and performances on a weekly/monthly basis. It welcomes pre-teens and teens into a safe space to be themselves, expand skills, explore ideas and grow in knowledge. It values lifelong learning as all ages are offered computer use and a nearly endless well of resources — business tips, consumer information, language courses, magazines of all types as well as varied and informative programs. There are museum passes that enable free entry to local sites, CDs and DVDs for the asking. A service I regularly take advantage of is the ability to reserve any book title available from virtually any library in the MA.
All of these services are available year-round to any resident with an easy to get library card. The library itself is perhaps of particular importance to those with limited financial resources, but for me, the library is also a steadying force reflecting community solidarity and an anchor of rational thought. Many of these services are made possible through the state library certification program, that depends on a certain level of town funding each year. Without an override, current library funding is set to decrease, thus disqualifying us from certification and access to many of these programs. To me, that is not only a loss materially, but also sends a message about the priorities of our town. Those who are understandably concerned for the financial impact of an override, have perhaps not considered the financial impact of not passing an override. Perhaps there are creative ways to ameliorate the burden for those for whom it would be prohibitive.
I hope that our votes on April 14 are cast to keep South Hadley a town that values growth and ongoing learning opportunities for every member of our community.
Karen Hyvonen
South Hadley