People of Ashland in need of a better building for their public library

To The Daily Sun,

Public libraries serve the people. Public libraries give private, unmonitored access to information through printed books, which is extremely important, especially in this modern day of pervasive surveillance.

Public libraries give all people access to the internet, which should be a modern right, not a privilege. Public libraries offer services to the community, which enrich the people, often times especially children. Public libraries increase literacy and respect for the free exchange and discussion of ideas. People who love their democracy, love their library. In the past people have fought for the right to access public libraries. A library card used to be a cherished possession, that is how important a quality public library is to the empowerment of the people.

Now I have my suggestions for strengthening the current library improvement plan, which you can find on my website VoteSivalinga.com under the entry Sivalingam, 2017 Warrant Article 3.

For example, if we are going to take up the tax burden of a new library, we must offset the cost in other areas, in part by increasing reliance on volunteers. However, it is my opinion that the people of Ashland are in need of a better building for its public library, and Ashland's historic school at 41 School St. is a great choice.

I encourage the voters to fall in love with their library again, and vote "Yes" to warrant Article 3 (Library Building).

Tejasinha Sivalingam

Ashland