Dear Editor: Support for Library Levy

Dear Editor,

It is certainly true that individuals and institutions are going through difficult budget stretching times. It is definitely a time to prioritize and support those parts of our lives important to ourselves, our families, and our community. Certainly, the Whitehall Community Library is definitely one of the most essential parts of our community!

There are some essential facts that are definitely true about our hometown library: the library and Whitehall Schools have a close, cooperative, friendly, working relationship. The library works as an essential part of the Whitehall Chamber, Jefferson Valley Community Foundation, and all county agencies.

The library has had no budget increases since 2004. Since then, the number of patrons has doubled, there are ten times as many program participants and the value of mills has decreased by $10k due to GSM.

The library is indeed an essential aspect of the community. Community members can make copies or send faxes. Computer and internet services are available. Crucial after-school programs are provided in a safe, comfortable location. Summer reading programs are provided to enrich learning. Access to thousands of books, DVDs, and more.

A yes vote will help to maintain and possibly expand operation hours, services and programs, digital and physical materials, and educational opportunities. Should this mill levy not pass, all of these crucial community programs will be negatively affected!!

Our Whitehall Community library is an absolutely essential part of our community. The library’s support of the entire community is of the highest importance but for our children’s learning and enrichment support of this mill levy is a vote to support our community!

A “yes” vote is earnestly requested!!

John Kreis

Whitehall, Montana