Page 57 - SOM Summer 2017

“Libraries allow children to ask questions about the world and find
the answers. And the wonderful thing is that once a child learns to
use a library, the doors to learning are always open.”

–Laura Bush

he first public library in the United dominant form of casual reading, libraries can
States opened in New Hampshire in seem outdated; however, their presence sends
T1833—a repository that provided a clear message that knowledge is crucial to
access to printed material. Since then, public the development and sustainability of com-
libraries have provided free access to infor- munities. “In my experience, people are actu-
mation (books and periodicals for people to ally reluctant to move completely away from
read and borrow), library sponsored reading print, and even if they do like digital, the pub-
programs have improved literacy develop- lic library has those options,” asserts Jennifer
ment in school-age children, and libraries Thompson, a local public school librarian.
have enriched depressed and declining com-
munities. They are cultural touchstones for After 64 years, the main branch in Roseburg
individual towns and cities, showcasing local has closed its doors after voters rejected a
art, living history, and special collections. property tax increase to fund the library
after declining timber revenue and reserve
According to the International Federation of funds created a budget shortfall—$20 mil-
Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA. lion dollars used to be allocated for such
org), “An important role of the public library programs. Since 1916, the 18 counties where
is providing a focus for cultural and artistic the Oregon and California Railroad Revested
development in the community and helping Lands (O&C) are located have received pay-
to shape and support the cultural identity of ments from the United States government as
the community…The public library has an compensation for the loss of timber and tax
important role as a public space and meeting revenue. Local government in several coun-
place.” ties (including Douglas County) have come to
depend on the O&C land revenue as a source
In an age when so much reading occurs online of income for schools and county services, law
and eReaders are quickly becoming the enforcement, and health and human services.

summer 2017 | www.southernoregonmagazine.com 55