This Tuesday, Hadley residents have the opportunity to enhance the quality of life for all residents by voting for a new library and a senior center.
Yes, I am a senior and a lifelong lover of books and libraries, so these votes would benefit me directly, but the town would also benefit. If you have ever set foot inside the current senior center, you need no persuasion as to the need for a healthier and more attractive setting for the people who have lived and toiled in Hadley for many decades. As others have stated, having such a center helps seniors remain in their homes and connect with community.
The library also provides community to all residents. If you don’t frequent the library, try it. The librarians are all friendly and helpful. Even if you are not a reader, they have an impressive catalog of films and books on CD.
Even in cramped quarters, the current library staff does an amazing job providing programming for all ages from small children to teens. Adults can join a book group or learn to play the ukulele. Imagine what our librarians could do with a large modern space. Yes, our current building is charming. But it is too small and is not accessible to many.
Picture yourself paging through your favorite magazines, using a computer for research or general browsing in a bright, comfortable space. Picture group meetings in a room that accommodates more than a few people.
A modern library is a community for all. Please attend the special Town Meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Hopkins Academy and vote to enhance our town’s sense of community.
Susan Garrett
Hadley