NSLS trouble portends greater catastrophe
A good friend of ours is critically ill. Did you get the e-mail? Probably not; most of you don't know this friend exists.
North Suburban Library System, one of several library systems in the state, is on life support. News was sent that staff have been laid off, classes canceled, projects abandoned. The only remaining sign of life at NSLS is the delivery van program which facilitates inter-library borrowing within and among systems.
What are the functions of NSLS and other library systems? Why should you care?
Systems like NSLS are the architectural framework that underpins access to information sources available to public, school, medical and other libraries. Systems manage inter-library loan requests. Many operate multi-library online catalogs. They participate in group negotiations for expensive online resources and provide continuing education opportunities.
NSLS is the canary in a statewide network that is slowly being strangled by broken promises and dereliction of fiscal responsibility. Yes, times are tough. Many of you are out of work but you need to realize that one of your lifelines is being cut. Without the system, smaller and poorer libraries will suffer.
Eventually all libraries, impelled by the need for local accountability, will be forced to limit access, materials and service. The "rich" will stay that way; you know what happens to the poor.
I don't want to pay more tax; no one does. Unfortunately this state has run out of options. Pusillanimous politicians have brought this state to the abyss. Does any intelligent citizen doubt that taxes will be raised immediately after the November elections?
By then, it will be too late for NSLS. Our Springfield invertebrates need to pay their just debts and to stop borrowing before funding new castles in the sky. Cut to the bone: pay your way: give good value. NOW.
I will pay additional taxes but I demand accountability. I am a librarian, a library user, a tax payer and a voter. Few of our current elected officials can expect my support in November.
Ask not for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee.
Sheila Barrett
Elk Grove Village