Letter to the Editor: Support our libraries

The Clay County Library Summer Reading program, which recently concluded, featured pythons to prestidigitation, and was a highlight of the library year. However, the five branch libraries offer year-round activities, support and programming for Clay County residents and those in the greater Jacksonville area.

As any patron knows, the operating hours are staggered and somewhat confusing. The cutback in hours is a result of local and state budget reductions over the last several years. However, with budget projections looking up, and with the population growing steadily, it is time to revisit library status.

The Clay County Library Advisory Board of Trustees has reached a consensus that the library hours in all branches need to be restored to their former levels. The annual cost would be less than $350,000. The benefits would be enormous – increased accessibility, programming and activity.

The Clay County Board of County Commissioners is holding a Library Workshop in the Green Cove Springs Administration Building on Monday, Aug 7, 2017, at 6 p.m. Attendees will be welcome to comment on this issue. Public support can make “Back to the Future” a good move!

Sandy Coffey

Orange Park

Clay County Library Advisory Board of Trustees