To the Editor:

Why increase funding for libraries? One can’t be blamed for asking the question when so much information and entertainment is just one click away.

Libraries, however, are more than collections of books and movies: They are indoor public spaces that play a crucial role in communities, especially in regions with long winters like the North Country.

Residents of the Canton Central School District have demonstrated their appreciation of the value of libraries by approving previous funding increases, and I encourage you to continue this support by voting in favor of another funding increase for the Canton Free Library on Tuesday, May 15.

This year’s request is $20,000 less than the previous one, and is part of the Library’s multiyear plan to simplify its sources of funding by eliminating funding from the Town and Village of Canton.

Increasing the budget will not only grow the library’s collection, but will also pay the salaries of dedicated librarians and staff members who program popular community events like Anime Club, Baby Storytime, and the Battle of the Books.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Canton Free Library and I hope you’ll be able to vote on the funding increase proposition on Tuesday, May 15, 12-8pm in the High School Learning Resource Center.

Chris Buck

Canton Free Library trustee