All this while, we’ve been asking you to speak up, and now it’s our turn. We’d like to start by making this point:
The Grand Forks Public Library is about more than books.
A library is not a warehouse for books alone. The Grand Forks Public Library should be the heart and brain of our community – a unified hub providing knowledge, connectivity and services for all regardless of age, economic status, location, literacy level, ethnicity or ability.
A library is a central source for information in all formats. A public library should be viewed first and foremost as a community gathering spot – a place where people can get what they need, free of charge, in a trusted setting with experienced, hands-on assistance. In fact, the Grand Forks Public Library has over 800 unique visitors daily. It’s a central location for people who wish to exchange ideas. It is a place for lifelong learning. It’s a technology hub, providing computer and internet access – again, free of charge – as well as a resource for technology training.
In the 1960’s, public library collections contained LP records, which eventually were replaced by 8-track tapes, cassette tapes and compact discs. In the 21st Century, public libraries are digitalized, and our collection now contains databases and downloadable materials. Of the 2,355 items checked out daily at the Grand Forks Public Library, books continue to be the most popular by far. Books are not dead or dying.
Does anyone know what the popular format will be in 2050? Certainly not any of us! We do know, however, that flexibility is the key to a successful public library collection. The materials must be representative of the public’s wants and needs. Information will always be a sought-after resource at public libraries across the nation.
The Grand Forks Public Library aims to be that library – the heart and brain of our community – now and into the future.
We hope this explanation encourages you to become an informed voter, so that on May 3 you can cast your vote with confidence for the proposed one-cent sales tax to fund construction of a new Grand Forks Public Library.
speak up for your library 