Many thanks to the Sun Day for the detailed information about the Huntley Area Public Library’s proposed expansion and renovation project. While I am as concerned about high taxes in Illinois as anyone, the library plans seem not only reasonable, but necessary. Yes, book circulation is down in recent years due to the amount of information available electronically. But digital downloads are up. While this does not require the same amount of physical space, space is needed for the ever-increasing demand for a myriad of programs for children, teens, adults and families in a community that has grown rapidly in recent years and will continue to do so. For anyone with a disabling condition or lack of transportation, there is even a free Library2Go service for homebound library patrons.
All of us, young and old alike, benefit from a robust library district, just as we do from a strong school district, park district, fire and police protection. It contributes to the value of our homes and the collective sense of community that makes Huntley such an attractive place to live. Personally, I have saved hundreds of dollars by borrowing rather than buying books, audio books, DVD’s and any number of other resources available through the public library.
If you have any doubt that a local library can be the very soul of a community, I highly recommend “The Library Book,” by Susan Orlean (Simon & Schuster, 2018). Author Dave Eggers describes it as a story about “…the central role that libraries have always and will always play in the life and health of a bustling democracy.” Libraries have served for decades as “the people’s university,” a place for business meetings, tutoring and job skills training, as well as an informative, welcoming resource for newcomers while preserving the past for us all.
Consider taking a tour to see for yourself that the need for the Huntley Library’s proposed expansion project is real. If you do, you will see staff crammed into too-small spaces (including a closet or two), insufficient storage, overcrowded study areas and more. If the referendum on April 2 does not pass, the trailers that currently serve as the Children’s area, purchased used many years ago and now grossly inadequate, will be removed. At that point, the Children’s area will move into an already cramped main library. This is so far from ideal that I cannot even imagine it. Please join me then in voting “Yes” to the Huntley Area Library Expansion on April 2.
Betsy Liotus (N11)
Citizens for Library Yes
