Endorsement: Fox Lake library referendum

The last time the Fox Lake Library District went to referendum was in 1976. Back then, books and reference materials filled library shelves. Today, techno-savvy patrons expect to find not only books, but audio books, music CDs, DVD movies and Internet access. As materials increase, so does the need for more space. The library district wants voters to approve nearly $15 million in bonds to equip and build a new facility that will double the size of the current building, which will include a large meeting room, a cyber café, a children's area and other amenities. If approved, the bonds will cost the owner of a $250,000 home about $94 more a year in property taxes.

Library trustees have planned well for the project. They already own the land for the new building, which is adjacent to the current library at 255 E. Grand Ave. The current library will remain in operation while the new one is being built. After the new building is up, the old one will be demolished. The library district takes in a large area, including much of Grant Township, portions of Antioch and Burton townships, and the towns of Fox Lake, Ingleside, Lakemoor, McHenry, parts of Round Lake and Spring Grove. Officials expect the population served by the district to double from the current count of 18,533 by the year 2030.

Residents are encouraged to vote "yes" on Feb. 5.

Library trustees had the foresight to buy the property ahead of time, saving themselves the additional costs of land acquisition. With a growing population, the demands for all types of services, including the library, will increase as well.

Building a library for the 21st century is a smart investment. A library has the potential to be a centerpiece of a community, provided it appeals to everyone -- from senior citizens to MP3-laden teenagers. The new Fox Lake Library has the potential to do just that.