Don't let library become dinosaur

I'm voting yes for the St. Charles Public Library referendum. While it is hard to support an increase in taxes, I am willing to give a little for the public good.

Our library has done a great job of transforming its space to keep up with trends. When the library built its last addition in 1988, no one could have foreseen the changes in how we compile and retrieve information. Computers, the Internet, Wi-Fi, DVDs and CDs had either not been invented or popularized. Who knew that our library would have to stretch and remold its footprint to accommodate a computer lab, Internet user stations and shelves of DVDs and CDs?

Our library has also done a good job of keeping up with demand. When the 1988 library addition was built, there were fewer families in St. Charles. Reports show that more people are using the library and demanding different types of services. Now we ask reference librarians to point us to Internet databases that are only available by library subscription. We ask for classes on how to use computer programs.

I've read that libraries must get ready to mutate again. The public is demanding that libraries offer quiet space and meeting space for all manner of groups but that they also serve as an urban hangout.

How much more can our present library stretch to meet these and future needs? We are maxed out. If the St. Charles Public Library becomes a dinosaur, it will be our own fault. We must invest in its restructuring.

Peg Coker

St. Charles