Increase library funds

On Tuesday, North Little Rock voters will be asked to vote on a referendum to increase funding for city libraries.

Libraries are vital in the lives of many, from the youngest just developing literacy skills, to seniors living on a budget. These are the only places in the community providing free access to public computing and continued educational opportunities.

North Little Rock Public Library’s board of trustees has determined that the current level of funding is not adequate to support the present level of programs, services, staffing, and collections while providing repairs and modernization to aging buildings. Argenta Library now occupies a 91-yearold historic Post Office building, and Laman Library is 60 years old.

The library depends on community members’ property tax revenue to support most of its operations. This encompasses staffing and general maintenance of both locations, maintaining and increasing materials and services that are most used and popular, plus new types of materials and services that are increasingly in demand, the maintenance of heavily used public-access computers, and the development of community programs and events.

We all know how much prices have risen in the past 20 years, when the current level of library funding was set. It affects everything, especially the cost of electronic resources, which have nearly doubled in the last few years.

With increased funding, the library can also provide longer operating hours, automatic doors for barrier-free access, and renovations to mechanical systems nearing the end of their expected lifespans. In order to complete necessary renovations without increased funding, the library may need to reduce programs, including outreach to day cares, schools, and seniors.

We urge you to vote yes on Feb. 14 or during early voting, which will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today.

CHERYL YOPP North Little Rock

Cheryl Yopp is president of Just Between Friends of the North Little Rock Public Library. This letter was also signed by Christopher T. Kent, John Gaudin, Debra Buckner, Jenny Heard, Macy Purtle, and Adam Webb.