The need for libraries

To the Editor:

In difficult economic times, citizens turn in even greater numbers to their public libraries.

A difficult economy has resulted in continuing budget cuts to the Rumford Library, especially over the last three years. As a result, many recreational readers, schoolchildren, nontraditional students, patrons seeking information, and citizens needing computers for job searches and resume templates are finding the library doors closed; their schedules no longer coincide with the new and restricted hours.

The current proposed library budget can help return basic services. This letter is a plea to the Board of Selectmen and the Finance Committee, as they struggle to make fair and constructive decisions, to consider the manifold benefits that a library offers.

Anne and Joe Sirois,

Rumford