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A Time to Act

Since we moved to Madison in 2001, the Scranton Library has been a favorite spot for my family. It has been an honor to serve on the Library Board since 2009 with a group of dedicated volunteers who care deeply about what happens to the historic property on the corner of Wall Street and Main Street and the public it serves.

The size of our current library is well under the state guidelines for a town of our size. It is not a question of more room for books. Libraries are now evolving into centers of lifelong learning and involvement, whether book groups (there are many), free movies, lectures, story hour, civic organizations, or art shows for all ages.

That changing role means we need more room for people and programs and, in the case of this plan, about 45 parking spaces that lead directly to a new entrance in the back.

The project cost is down overall from the proposal that was narrowly defeated in 2008. The bond request is decreased from $13.3 to $9.1 million, and the historic character of the corner gets its due respect.

This project also comes at a good time fiscally. Adjacent land and buildings were secured with private donations years ago, so there is no cost to taxpayers for that. Debt service for the high school bond and Rockland purchase is coming down in a couple of years. Interest rates remain low. If ever there was a time to act, it is now.

I urge your readers to go to Brown Middle School or the Senior Center on Tuesday, Feb. 7 to vote “Yes” for the Scranton Library Bond.

Beth Coyne

Madison