Editor, OBSERVER:
I have been reading for many months the letters regarding funding to the Dunkirk Free Library. To start, I will answer the questions I know will be asked of me: Yes, I am a taxpayer in the city, and no, I do not know the ins and outs of the city budget. It may be a naive thought, but that is why I put my trust in our city officials, both past and present, to compile a budget that is in the best interest of the city and all of the residents.
The Dunkirk Free Library has been a part of my life since I attended storytime over 30 years ago. I continued to utilize the library throughout my junior and high school years for numerous assignments and even helped out with the annual auction while a member of the Key Club in high school. I continue to visit the library at least once a week with my three young children to attend storytime and the other great events held there.
I feel that the library is one of the greatest assets to our community and it is a slap in the face to the employees, volunteers and patrons to continue to read all of the negative letters that continue to be printed in this column.
I am not out to change anyone's mind, because I can see the letter writer's mind is not going to be swayed by myself or anyone else, but I do hope that the writer can take the time to visit the library and see what takes place there on a daily basis.
The children's room has wonderful storytimes, craft events, puzzles, computer games and animals for the kids to visit. It is also a way for parents, grandparents and caregivers to connect with others on a weekly basis and establish friendships. While I do not visit the upstairs regularly, when I do, the computers are being utilized while other patrons are checking out the books, magazines and movies.
Promoting reading and computer skills does cost money, but I feel that the Dunkirk Free Library spends every penny given to them wisely to better the citizens of our community, whether it comes from donations or the city budget.
LORI FELT,
Dunkirk
