To the Editor:

As President of the Board of Trustees of the Massena Public Library, I--along with four other volunteer trustees--am responsible for ensuring the library operates as required by law. That responsibility includes ensuring that no library resources are used to urge the residents of the Massena Central School District which way to vote on May 21.

So, what I write here, I write it as a private citizen, which I am allowed to do.

But before I tell you what I think as a private citizen, please let me tell you some facts:

Fact #1: The current vote, if successful, will mean the library leadership will have more direct accountability to the voters and taxpayers.

Fact #2: The current vote, if successful, will mean the library budget will have more direct fiscal accountability to the voters and taxpayers.

Fact #3: A library that owns its own building is able to keep that building when it changes library "types", which is what the May 21st vote is about. As its own legal entity, the Massena Public Library owns its building. The current vote, if successful, will not change the location of the library.

Now, please let me tell you my position as a private citizen:

When the Henry H. Warren Memorial Library building was opened in 1962, the community was united in support, knowing that a library would enhance the education of children and learning through adult life.  Residents recognized that no matter how much or little they used the library, the service could raise the whole community.  

My family and I used the library for our main entertainment, as have so many others.  Having used the library my whole life, I have seen continually the enjoyment library activities bring to people.   

The current vote is to preserve and strengthen our library as a resource for our whole community.  Voting "yes" for elected trustees, and "yes" for a budget authorized directly by the taxpayers puts the question directly in your hands.

As President, I am committed to our community having a library that presents a consistent level of service to the public, as it has for many generations. The residents of the Massena School District have a chance to weigh in on that vision, and as a private citizen I hope that you vote "YES" to the initiative put forth by the Massena Public Library.

Thank you for voting for what you think is best for our community.

Joseph Savoca
Massena