It is time to invest in first-class libraries

Pensacola News Journal

November 17, 2008

Editorial


The economy is down but the circulation at the West Florida Public Library system is up, which shows the desperate need to improve a system that ranks among the worst in the state.


Clearly, no community should be without a first-rate library. The library is a portal to the world of knowledge for people of all ages, and should reflect that value.


During these tough economic times, it hard to dismiss the importance and popularity of the public library.


The West Florida Public Library system had significant increases in books and other materials checked out during the 2007-08 fiscal year, compared to the previous year.


Circulation of books and other materials increased from 680,000 to 747,000, a roughly 10 percent increase. Use of library computers increased 15 percent, from 138,000 users to 159,000 at the various branches of the library.


People who used the library to check out materials, use the computers or read newspapers and magazines increased about 5 percent, from 584,000 to 613,000.


Clearly, an enhanced library system that serves the needs of area residents is a good investment.


For too long, the West Florida system has had the unfortunate distinction of ranking at or near the bottom statewide in library investment and facilities.


At some point — at least we hope — more area leaders and residents will begin to grasp the connection between the investment in things like libraries, and the community's economic vitality.


To its credit, the local public library does the best it can, given its age and deteriorating condition, but there is only so much to be done.


It's time to make the investment to provide a first-class community a first-class library.

The payoff will be worth it, and not only in learning or research. There will be payoffs in economic opportunity as well.