To the Editor:
My support for libraries began with my mother.
My mother was deaf. Because communicating with patrons at the front desk was difficult for her, she was asked to mend and bind worn or damaged library books. For approximately twenty-five years, she faithfully volunteered. Her dedication was recognized with a Presidential Award during President Clinton’s administration.
Her greatest gift to her children, however, was the example she set. She taught us that libraries serve people throughout every stage of life, and that communities must support the libraries that give them so much.
When I moved to Colusa, I saw exactly what my mother had described: a small community library offering programs, resources, learning opportunities, and a welcoming place for people of all ages. I joined the Friends of the Library to help support that work and honor my mother’s example.
For my mother, repairing a book meant giving someone else the chance to enjoy it. Her quiet work reminded me that every contribution matters. Today, I see that same spirit in the people who care for our library and make its programs possible. Their dedication deserves more than our gratitude; it deserves our active support and lasting financial commitment.
Libraries help children discover reading, students learn, adults access information and technology, and seniors find connection. They bring people together and open doors to opportunity.
But appreciation alone cannot keep library doors open. Strong programs and dependable services require adequate, dependable funding for staff, materials, technology, and facilities. Volunteers and community supporters have an important role, but libraries also need a sustained public commitment to their future.
I urge our community and local leaders to protect library funding and provide the resources our libraries need to thrive. Our library has been there for Colusa. We must be there for our library, too.
My mother understood that supporting a library is one way we invest in one another. I am proud to carry her lesson forward, and I hope our community will stand behind our libraries for generations to come.
Jan Brannon
Colusa, CA