Bringing children into the library can transport them form the commonplace to the extraordinary. Children get a sense of personal responsibility by holding their first library card, a card that gives them access to new worlds of stories and ideas. One hopes these youngsters will learn the value of independent thought and personal inquisitiveness using their public library as a springboard. Recent focus groups have told us that many county residents use the library to escape from our high tempo, sound-bite filled, and noisy culture. Likewise, libraries often emote a physical reaction, a feeling of peace, respect, humility, and honor that throws the mind wide open and provides tranquility in a fast-paced world.
Libraries also offer a respite from the ubiquitous for-profit commercial activities in our society.
By making all its resources equally available to every member of the community, regardless of income, class, or other factors, the library provides equal opportunity for everyone. We offer civic spaces where all can speak freely and share similar interests and concerns. In each case, public libraries provided crucial start-up information. Chris Navarro came to this library to begin his quest to become a self-taught sculptor. We are honored to have him and other talented individuals as regular patrons and library advocates.