Library supporters have worked hard to raise funds and awareness of the need for a new library. They are in the midst of a major fall fund-raising drive and pursuing all available avenues to reduce the amount that needs to be borrowed. Almost $2 million toward the goal of $5.7 million has been raised.
It's important for voters to remember a "yes" vote does not oblige the city to borrow $2.2 million. Without voter approval, however, the city cannot borrow any amount for the project.
More importantly, a solid "yes" vote will indicate the community's strong support for the project to potential donors. Why should others pay for the project if community members are unwilling to take on some of the financial responsibility? Without community commitment to complete the project, future grant applications are likely in jeopardy.
In 1979, the existing library was designed to hold 8,000 volumes and serve an area population of about 5,000. Today, 33,500 volumes are packed onto the library's shelves, and the area the library serves is home to about 11,000 residents. The heavy use the current library gets is an indication of how well received a new library would be. Some days there are lines out the door. During the library's weekly story time, other library users are displaced.
Because of space limitations, the existing library is little more than a warehouse for books. The proposed new library correctly can be called an investment in the future. As library supporters note: "Library users strive to make themselves more educated citizens, more knowledgeable employees and more successful students."
In other words, an improved library in Homer would help improve the lives of everyone who walks through its doors, thus improving the quality of life in the entire community.
Supporters of a new library envision it as a community resource center where learners of all ages can access all kinds of books and information in a variety of forms; use high speed Internet access; study; participate in discussion groups; learn to read and enjoy their love of reading among other things.
Supporters have been so dedicated to their mission that it's difficult not to be inspired by their passion for the project. In fact, if anyone opposes a new library they're keeping it to themselves.
A new library for Homer is not a frill, not just a pretty building, but an important ingredient to an ever-improving community. Proposition No. 1, which will ensure the project happens, deserves the whole-hearted support of Homer voters.
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