Libraries contribute to communities

My husband and I live in Sagle, but subscribe to the Bonners Ferry Herald. Our daughter and son-in-law work and reside in Bonners Ferry and so we enjoy learning about what is going on north of us.

We were interested to read about the new library proposal for your area. The article reminded us of the challenges the East Bonner County Library District experienced in the 1990s when Sandpoint outgrew its facilities. Many bonds and levies were attempted and in May 1998 the voters supported a new library.

Fast-forward to 2014. We are both retired now and so can go to the library during the work week.

When we were there last week there was a story time for young children and banks of computers were being utilized by adults and college students. Books, DVDs, CDs, e-books, e-audiobooks, and e-music were being checked out.

There were many adults, mostly seniors sitting upstairs reading newspapers and magazines. A meeting was going on in one of the rooms available for community use and art work was displayed by local youth in the entry… the list goes on. The library was a hub of activity!

A community library is crucial in today’s world. An active and funded library can level the playing field for adults, young adults, and children alike who don’t have access to the tools needed to succeed in today’s world. Rural communities like Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry have families who live off the grid or who are unable to afford the tools needed to gain access to educational opportunities. Please seriously consider voting in support of your local library expansion. All the citizens in your community will stand to benefit.

Jackie and Tim Hanna

Sagle