Encourage lawmakers to oppose SSB 3131
Iowa has one of the longest and most robust histories of support for public libraries in the nation. That legacy will end if Senate Study Bill 3131 passes. This bill undermines the autonomy of Iowa’s public libraries. It changes language in the Iowa Code that would jeopardize library funding. It removes entire sections of the code, which would strip public library boards of their powers and transfers library assets to the city. Public libraries are a vital part of a community’s free access to information, education, and technology. They serve as community meeting spaces and provide engagement and activities for citizens of all ages.
Public library boards are made up of citizen volunteers who know and understand the unique needs of the library and can best allocate funds to ensure they go where they’re needed most. This is not a partisan issue; these changes will dismantle the public library system in Iowa.
As a library director, advocate, and life-long Iowa library user, I oppose SSB 3131. I encourage all citizens who believe in the importance of public libraries and their services to contact their state Senators and ask them to vote no on SSB 3131.
Grace Chamberlain
Mount Vernon
My grandson goes to Mount Vernon High School and receives a free lunch. Tuesday he was walking laps at lunch time and decided to have just a milk and a slice of pizza. Then we get an e-mail that he owes $2.75 because, (I kid you not) he did not take the full meal. I told him that after this to take the full meal and throw out whatever he does not want to eat. Wasteful? Yes. But apparently this is what they want the students to do.
David Washburn
Mount Vernon