Supporting The Library Levy

Dear Editor,

A five year 2-mill levy to help support Glasgow City-County Library is on the ballot. It was five years ago that this same levy passed by a nearly 3 to 2 margin- 1195 for and 873 against. We trust the levy will receive the same support, or better, during this election.

What does our library offer? Here is condensed list:

1. Choose from 45,000 items, to include books, movies, audios, CD books and CD movies, large print books and more- available to loan with a free library card.

2. 14 newspapers plus a good variety of magazines and other periodicals.

3. Free Wi-Fi and internet access and a meeting space which public is free to use.

4. Free proctoring service for students.

5. Outreach to Valley View, Prairie Ridge and NEMONT Manor

6. A monthly book club, a Lego Club, and story time every Thursday at 10 a.m., ages 0-7.

7. Online access to Heritage Quest and A to Z Recipes.

8. MontanaLibrary2Go-Overdrive: offering eBooks and downloadable audio books.

9. Summer Reading Program for all ages and presentation of other special events.

10. Place beyond social media and television in which a person can grow, keep informed, and be entertained in a safe and comfortable environment.

11. Three full-time and two part-time friendly and service-oriented employees.

12. Hours of operation: Mon-Thurs 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Fri 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sat 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The library hosts about 1,000 patrons per week, 52,000 per year, and would love to increase that number. There are about 4,000 registered users, and that does not include travelers who often make use of the facility. You have suggestions? Increased service ideas? Just call Megan Haddix at 228-2731.

I had the privilege to be ex-officio part of Library Board when I worked for county. The Board is outstanding. They strategically plan and work to have the most effective and efficient library possible. Staff and Board appreciate the value of taxes and take their spending responsibility very seriously.

A vote for the levy is vote for a great resource that can be used by every person in Valley County. Funds are cared for by an excellent creative library staff under the policy guidance of a concerned and accomplished Library Board. Having this outstanding library is a positive measure of Valley County wellness I trust you will continue to support this important part of our Valley County.

Sincerely,

Bruce Peterson

County Commission, 2006-2018

Fort Peck, Mont.