Can you imagine running your household with today's prices on a 1986 budget and then cutting it another 30 percent the next year? Yet, that is what our Portsmouth Public Library system is facing. Thankfully, you have the power to change that by voting to "yes" to support the library on the upcoming Nov. 2 election.

Our Portsmouth Public Library system has been a prominent role in the community, dating back to 1901 when Henry Lorberg, a prominent figure and publisher, was instrumental in obtaining the original $50,000 from Andrew Carnegie for the main library in Portsmouth. Today, the Portsmouth Public Library serves all Scioto Countians and includes branches in Lucasville, McDermott, South Webster, Wheelersburg, New Boston, as well as a countywide book mobile service.

Ohio is considered to have the one of the best public library systems in the USA, and our libraries in Scioto County are among some of Ohio's best. Let's not let that stop because we failed to support the library in the upcoming November election. Let's not take for granted this wonderful institution that has been such an important part of our community in developing fife-long learners and enriching the lives of all Scioto Countians.

Sue Welty

Portsmouth