To the Editor:

A library patron once said to me “The Potsdam Pubic Library is a jewel in the community.”

I believe that it truly is.

The library offers not only books and magazines (paperback and online,) but also computers, DVDs and compact discs for loan.

The new Potsdam Computer Center (PCC) and public computers on the main floor were made possible through grants.

The PCC offers one on one lessons on QuickBooks and many other digital topics.

Patrons can download E-books at the library or from their home computers. This is partially funded by a grant.

The library is also blessed with many volunteers from the community as well as several Clarkson University work study students and the word of the Friends of the Potsdam Public Library.

Unfortunately grants don’t cover the operating budget. On June 11, the library is holding a referendum from noon to 8 p.m. in the library basement to raise the library tax by a small amount to maintain the services that your community has available now.

I live on a fixed income and enjoy many of these services – for instance the library computers that are expensive to own and maintain.

I cant buy all the books, magazines, DVDs and compact discs that the library supplies for me and the community.

Please support your community library. Vote yes on June 11.

Kathy Ann Cassel

Potsdam