Will we maintain our position in the world by our children’s ability to shoot a 25’ jump shot or by their ability to logically solve a mathematical theorem? We need doctors, scientists and engineers to tackle the world’s problems.
Walking down main street Darby at 3:15 on a weekday afternoon, you will encounter students descending upon the Darby Community Public Library. The library provides a safe haven for students to do homework, read a book or research projects on the internet. Children can participate in Techie Table STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) challenges or art, historical and cultural workshops designed to educate and develop their sense of capability and the world.
The 2015 static budget was $70,000. The $25-30,000 shortfall needed to buy books, subscriptions, computers, office supplies, insurance, contract services, utilities, and internet came from grants, donations and gifts. Non-paid volunteers donate 68 hours per week performing needed tasks to keep the library open. The library has had to cut hours and programs while the number of patrons has increased 250% since opening its doors in 2004.
The library needs a stable source of funding. Seniors, job seekers, and researchers depend on the library for its inter-library loan services and internet. Most of all, our children need the library to help them compete in our changing world.
I volunteer at the Darby Community Public Library, Ravalli County Extension, Bitterroot Financial Education Coalition, and Montana Girl’s STEM Collaborative. I use the Darby Community Public Library as a resource to reach out and provide information and programs to our youth.
Please vote YES for the 3.0 mill levy. On a $100,000 home’s assessed value, it is less than the cost of movie ticket.
Herlene Rich
Hamilton