Perhaps you are one of the over 23,000 active library card holders in Pike County. When was the last time you needed to send a fax, make a copy, use a computer, borrow a DVD, video or book? When was the last time you attended a free class, children’s program or heard a local author promote reading? Perhaps you needed to look up a lost relative in the Pike County Room or simply wanted to read the newspaper in a comfortable chair. Pike County’s public libraries have been there for you — now is your time to return the favor. This is a letter to encourage all Pike County voters to support the library levy and vote “yes” for our libraries on Nov. 3, 2009.

Having served on the board since 1993,1 know that the library is funded by the Public Library Fund from the state of Ohio; not from any trusts, as has been questioned by some. Since 2001, our portion from the state has been on a steady decline; an unforeseen reality that regretfully, has forced the reduction of hours, employees and services. Be assured, the board is frugal with each dollar received from the state, is grateful for all monetary gifts and grant monies that enable it to provide excellent programs and services free to all.

The vision of the board was to be able to plan and see to fruition the building of three branch libraries to better serve the needs of the people of Pike County. With the opening of each building in key locations throughout the county, the board is able to provide jobs and much needed free services for all library patrons. Due to careful management and an excellent staff, the library and branches have been able to remain open, albeit with severe reductions in hours and services. This exceeds neighboring counties who have closed branches.

Please join us! Make a statement to return hours, employees, and services to the Garnet A. Wilson Waverly Library, Piketon, Beaver, and Western Libraries! VOTE “yes” for our libraries on Nov. 3.

Kimberley H. Rittenour
Vice president of Board of Trustees
Garnet A. Wilson Public Library
Waverly

My husband and I have lived in Pike County for almost 45 years. This is home to us, and we hope to live here the rest of our earthly lives. One of the benefits I enjoy most is our library in Piketon. The wonderful benefit of books, videos, and computer has been a great resource for me and my family.

When our four youngest grandchildren come to stay with us, the library is one of the first places they ask to go. They love putting puzzles together and playing games on the computer since I do not have a computer at home, I have utilized that resource continuously. We have checked out many books and we are more informed, educated, and entertained all without costs.

Our library is also a little haven when the lunch program provides meals for children including my four granddaughters when they visit. Story time may be the only time many of the children are read to. Our library is such a vital part of our community and offers nothing but positive input for our village.

I was very sad with the hours shortened and the additional days closed. Nowhere that I know of can a child or adult receive as much joy and benefit as is derived from our libraries. Each one of us is always treated with efficiency, help, kindness and respect. I have been to other libraries in the county and what they all provide is a constant source of pleasure in a peaceful and stress-free environment. May our libraries continue to provide all these many blessings in the years to come.

Becky Purpero
Piketon