Opinion
The Lindsay Public Library has been providing a service to the citizens since its inception in 1958. During these 60-plus years there have only been four directors and the library has kept pace with new technology.
The Oklahoma Department of Libraries partners with the OKC Zoo in a program that encourages reading a designated book each summer. This year it is “Juniper’s Butterfly Garden.” Families receive a coupon to redeem for admission to the zoo for four people at no charge. This is the library’s fourth year of participation.
Community Cares is an online assistance program that the City of Lindsay sends residents to the library to apply for help on utility bills. The library staff helps these citizens navigate the process and any other individuals with other computer needs: resume building, employment applications, Medicare or Social Security assistance, healthcare information, research on many topics from genealogy to job opportunities, resources, online classes, income tax and many other reasons.
The library is available year around for all ages. It provides a meeting place for any community organization. Currently veterans, Epic, juvenile and social services groups utilize the meeting room on a regular basis. Another special room has been cre ated to offer a glimpse into the history and roots of Lindsay’s earlier days.
Funds have been limited to the library since February 2021 and with the $1.1 million dollar deficit in the city funds, a further reduction may be expected. Yet, Pioneer fiber optic is the library’s internet provider and is paid primarily with Federal Grant money. Patrons have generously provided some funds to purchase books or donated new reading materials to the library during the past year.
The library is a vital asset to Lindsay and the surrounding communities, not just a place with books. The city council will be making some tough decisions, and hopefully that does not include closure of the library or staff replacement with inexperienced volunteers.
/s/ Ronnie Akerman and Friends of the Library
