Norfolk budget

Re “Recreation, library” (May 8): Libraries and recreational facilities are integral threads in the fabric of a community. They are places of enlightenment and enrichment, mental and physical growth, solace and camaraderie. As a person who has volunteered at, worked in and benefited tremendously from libraries, I want to express my delight and appreciation that Norfolk City Council approved the 2023 fiscal year budget of $1.89 million for libraries and recreation.

This reinstatement of the library and recreation center budget to pre-COVID-19 funding levels will provide greater access to books, the internet, community events, physical activity and lifesaving training (e.g., swimming lessons) for the roughly 48,000 children in Norfolk. These positive alternatives may help to reduce youth violence — as Merrie Jo Milner mentioned in her letter. Furthermore, adults needing workforce-related resources and educational services will have better prospects of achieving their career and educational goals.

Now that funding is available, staffing is the next challenge. As most of us are aware, there is a labor shortage, with women and minorities bearing a substantial proportion of the burden. I urge the council to keep this in mind when considering ways to equitably promote returns to work for library and recreational facility staff. Examples of this include coordinating with community colleges, providing on-the-job training, and offering valuable benefits such as child care and flexible working arrangements. Securing reliable, competent staff will allow library and recreational center operations and hours to return to pre-pandemic levels, which will further bolster their positive community impact.

DaShaunda D.H. Taylor, Virginia Organizing member, Norfolk