Dear Editor:
I find it curious that council deems the library not worthy of a first phase in the proposed new community hall. Historically, libraries have always been attacked. Ancient Romans destroyed the fine library situated in Alexandria. Vikings sacked monastic libraries. Crusaders ransacked the repository of ancient Greek books in the library at Constantinople. Nazis burned books in more recent times and now electronic machines attempt to make books obsolete. Those who love to read will tell you that, by holding a book and turning the pages of an absorbing or gripping story, one will experience a variety of emotions that cannot be seen on an illuminated plastic screen.
Books give something back to the Earth by decomposing that illuminated plastic cannot. Books can become priceless while illuminated plastic is simply thrown away once outdated. A library in a community speaks volumes (no pun intended) about the people who live there. A library gives a sense of permanence so lacking in a rapidly changing world. A library can still produce awe by its sheer numbers of volumes and success of authors who have been published. Sure, fitness centres have a role to play, especially for couch potatoes and those who sit behind computers all day, but a library is for all, agile or otherwise.Young or very old. Amen.
Margaret O’Sullivan
Invermere
