Support Dover Public Library levy renewal

The welcome mat at the entrance of the Dover Public Library reads “Free to the People,” and like many in Dover, I have benefited from this truth during every season of my life.

As a young child, I borrowed books and attended story times with Miss Pat. As a teen, I used the library for researching on the internet and typing and printing school papers when I didn’t have those resources at home. As a new mom, I used the library both for resources for my children and as a place to connect with other parents.

As a single-income household, my family understands living on a budget and the stress that comes from new expenses. However, as this is a renewal levy and will not mean an increase in cost to us, our decision to vote ‘yes’ was all the easier for our family.

We know the valuable resources at the library we use weekly—borrowing books, games and movies; attending story times or one of the many educational programs offered; stopping for a drink and cooling off during one of our family bike rides–cannot be replaced.

Mostly visiting the children’s department, we are currently just scratching the surface of the library’s resources. Every day, people use the computers to search for jobs, file taxes or play with friends. Students utilize the free after-school tutoring program, and older adults attend the Phone Zone sessions for tech help. There’s Chess Club, Ukelele Jam and Prattle and Purl; people learning at free ESOL classes; and A1C screenings and blood drives.

Our library doesn't just exist at the corner of Walnut and Sixth streets. It's out in our community–at kindergarten visitation night, the Story Walk at the park and the Lunch and Learn activities at the senior center. It's also in the more than 20 northeast Ohio museums and attractions available with free Adventure Passes, seriously, go check these out—I can’t list them all here.

I often say that the library is special because it is the only place you can go and not be expected to spend money, which is true. But it is also a place of connection and community. It’s a place of learning and growth; a place that serves everyone, no matter their background; and a place that serves people through all phases of their lives.

The Dover Public Library does so much for our community and now they are asking us to do our part to ensure they continue to thrive. Vote yes for Issue 2 May 5.

Amanda Graves

Dover