Cedar Rapids Library is heart of downtown

To the editor:

In three weeks, members of our library, our community generated more than enough signatures to place the library levy on the ballot. The response is a small measure of what our library means to the people of Cedar Rapids and an important step to sustainable library funding.

Let me share why I took the first step and invite you to take the next with me.

I walked to the library recently, one of the numerous benefits of being a New Bo resident. The downtown library draws visitors from all over, many of whom come on foot. Kids from area schools were heading in with homework. A walking group stopped in for a snack. Neighbors from New Bo were browsing through books; one was on the computer treadmill. Our new library is the heart of our downtown community, connecting people with one another and with rich resources for learning and growth. Downtown is booming. Business expansion and neighborhood development mean more people living and working here every month. More people who will walk to the library seven days a week. More people who will take a free class, use the free computers, reserve a free conference room. More people who will meet for lunch and celebrate a special occasion on the roof. More people who will count on the health of our library to sustain the growing need for services. More people, more reasons to vote for the library levy on Nov. 3. I'm voting yes. Will you join me?

Michelle LeCompte

Cedar Rapids