A proposed loss of $2.9 million in state funding for libraries would be detrimental to Missouri residents and communities.
Gov. Eric Greitens has proposed cutting the money from about 350 libraries across the state, while Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft is pushing for a $6.4 million increase.
Two officials at the Missouri River Regional Library this week urged lawmakers to - no surprise - support the latter proposal.
In tight budget years such as this one, everything needs to be on the chopping block for discussion. But libraries offer huge returns for their investments - and they are investments in communities.
Here are just a few benefits of libraries:
They promote literacy and learning through not only books, but DVDs, magazines, periodicals, reference materials, etc. Libraries' roles haven't been diminished by the advent of the internet, as some might believe. Many of these items now can be read, watched or listened to digitally as well.
They serve as a central hub for communities. At our own Missouri River Regional Library, mothers can connect at story times and teens can bond in the Teen Zone. At a recent event, local authors recently compared writing and marketing tips, while members of the public could interact with the authors.
Libraries are places for community members to discuss social and political issues of the day through events that they host.
They offer resources for small businesses, often going beyond books/magazines. Some even have state-of-the-art enhanced business information centers.
They provide tools and services for people with disabilities, including people who are sight- and hearing-impaired to be able to access their materials.
They are publicly funded, but they typically offer their events free to the public, otherwise. That includes concerts, visits by prominent authors and gallery displays.
Libraries have been referred to as the "people's university," offering a wealth of information and services to everyone, including those who cannot otherwise afford them.
Keith Richards, known more as a rocker than reader, may have said it best: "The public library is the great equalizer."
State lawmakers should, at the very least, maintain the state's investment in public libraries. They make huge contributions to the economic health and vibrancy of communities.