I hope to reach Montague voters who read the Recorder to implore them to vote “yes” for a new library! As I see it, there are many reasons to build a new library on Avenue A, but I want to highlight a few reasons that I don’t hear frequently discussed.
There has been much discourse lately around the loss of third spaces: a space that is not home, not school or work, but a free meeting place for all. Right now, the library is limited in its ability to function in that way most especially due to limited accessibility. A new library could create third spaces that give our youth safe places to spend free time, and create community for adults in a world where we are becoming increasingly isolated. The library would offer programming such as technology talks, job seeker instruction, craft programs, game nights, gardening programs, book and cookbook clubs, and more — as well as teen and youth programming.
As someone who works in community mental health, I cannot overstate the importance of the resources that libraries provide for underprivileged folks in our community. I regularly send people to the library to access supports like printers, computers, private spaces to attend required classes, and for employment resources. Librarians themselves are wonderful helping professionals with depth of knowledge that can be used to support people who are struggling with basic necessities. And before you ask, the clunky rural transportation systems are not well-equipped or frequent enough to support regular access to the libraries of other communities — and who knows how long they will be free?
I see no reason why we shouldn’t take the state money and bring it back to support our rural community rather than leave it to the cities in Massachusetts who already receive the majority of state funding. Please consider voting “yes” on June 24 for a project that will bring lasting benefits to our community.
Ellie Cook
Turners Falls