Letter to the Editor: Wood County BOE should support library
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I support the funding request by the Parkersburg and Wood County Public Library, which is led by Director Brian Raitz. A recent article in the News and Sentinel reported concerns Wood County Board of Education President Justin Raber raised regarding the library's funding requests, suggesting political intent on Brian Raitz's part. Brian's leadership is non-political and is focused on improving our community's access to knowledge and resources.
The library is requesting funding of $446,658.59, primarily focusing on enhancing children's services. This funding is not just a number; it represents the library's dedication to serving every individual in our community. It will benefit children and provide resources for adults, seniors, and other community members. This support will help ensure that our library continues to be a center for learning and enrichment for everyone.
In a time when access to information is crucial for empowerment, our library offers unbiased access to education, technology, and literary resources for people of all ages. The proposed budget allocation will allow the library to sustain its invaluable services, including after-school programs, the bookmobile (which serves areas from Williamstown to Rockport), and various cultural events that cater to all demographics in Wood County rather than just a narrow segment of it.
It is important to remember that libraries are crucial to democratic societies, offering free access to information that might otherwise be inaccessible to some community members. The Wood County Board of Education should consider this when allocating funds. By supporting our library, we are making a significant investment in our community's intellectual and cultural wealth and our society's democratic values.
Hubert Webb Jr.
Parkersburg