Public libraries serving greater need than ever before

Published 10:13 am Monday, July 16, 2018

Imagine a community resource that connects local residents to technology, job information, educational materials, access to historical documents, and arts and entertainment — all at no cost to patrons. 

Wonder how that would ever be possible? Well, it already is — look no further than our public library system.

Many of us may not even realize how many people utilize this invaluable resource on a regular basis.

But those wondering where we’d be without our libraries can look a few miles farther down the road. Residents within the Middle Georgia Regional Library system are experiencing that right now as Macon-Bibb officials grapple with a budget crisis that has left no funding and closed the doors on four public libraries. It’s particularly crushing when you consider the shuttering is taking place during the summer when young people are out of school and there is an increased need for computer access and positive, educational activities. 

Even as technology allows us to have access to books in the electronic form in a matter of seconds, public libraries still play a vital role. In fact, you could even argue that their role is greater now than ever before.

In recent years, public libraries have taken on new roles, expanding programs and offerings. On any given day, local residents can take part in story time, a book discussion, adult coloring or even yoga.

By providing free access to educational, news, and historical resources, libraries help keep the public informed and preserve and provide access to important information about the local community. As education changes and textbooks are less and less the norm, public libraries also provided much-needed internet access for local students to help them study, learn and complete school assignments.

The Twin Lakes Library System’s annual summer reading program ends later this month, adding another success story for this annual program that serves hundreds of all ages each year. In the past several weeks, participants have enjoyed educational programs and activities that have kept them active and engaged. That’s no small undertaking and it wouldn’t have been possible without our public library system.

Public libraries enrich our lives and add value to our communities. We can’t imagine where we’d be without them.