Letter to the editor: Libraries vital to communities

The word library is a bit of a misnomer. It conjures visions of older women sitting behind desks, checking out books and stamping dates on cards.

Libraries are actually vibrant places. In an average day as a volunteer at the Scottdale Public Library, I might encounter:

• An older adult who needs documents copied or faxed or is trying to settle an estate or solve a utility or tax issue.

• A middle-aged adult with no computer, printer or internet at home using the public computers/internet to write a resume or fill out a job application.

• A group of people planning their class reunion.

• Homeschool moms bringing their kids to STEM sessions.

• Group home leaders/caregivers bringing clients or friends in for a day-out activity.

• A grandparent caregiver reading to a grandchild in the children’s room.

• Teenagers using the internet access to do homework, or just hanging out in a safe space.

Yes, the Scottdale Library also lends books — thousands last year, according to the director.

I want libraries to continue to provide these services. The staff at the independent federal agency that funds libraries and museums, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, has been put on leave. According to the American Library Association, IMLS provides “the majority of federal library funds.” Those funds trickle down to local libraries. Other support comes from local communities, patrons and fundraising.

Anyone who wants to keep these educational information and service centers open can contact their local representative to let them know how vital libraries are to small communities.

Laurie S. Miller

Mt. Pleasant