New library plan should seek best balance

Frontiersman editorial board

This Thursday representatives from Valley cities and the borough will meet at 6 p.m. at the Palmer Depot to discuss the future of the area's library system. At current, the cities are funding half of their library budgets though much more than half of the patronage comes from outside city limits -- the borough pays the rest. Another issue to be considered at the meeting is whether there is a need for one centrally located library and, if so, where should it be placed.

A question worth asking is, how is the current system working, and would it be better to enhance the current system rather than make a dramatic change involving the construction of a new library? A recent proposal to build a new library in Wasilla -- a building that is badly needed -- was shot down. Perhaps the thought was that it would be best to wait and see what the borough's library plans will be. Even if a central library is built, Palmer and Wasilla should keep their buildings, and the Wasilla library needs a new home.

If a central library serves to weaken the Palmer and Wasilla branches, it may be the wrong approach at this time. Perhaps the best option is to improve upon what we already have, then to add or improve branches in some of the outlying areas. Ultimately, our local libraries should serve the needs of the most people, and they should reflect something of the communities they serve. The one thing we can be sure about is that, while the libraries are working hard and providing the best service they can right now, some improvements will be needed so they can keep up in the future.

No matter the decision, part of the improvement should be an increased application of technology. A modern library should be a place that takes advantage of technology in all the best ways -- wider access to the Internet and some of the powerful software now available would increase the value of library services. The libraries should also be places, especially in communities like ours, where people can do more than simply check out books. Visiting speakers, special performances and even classes could transform the libraries into vibrant community centers of activity.

If you have an opinion about what direction Valley libraries should take, and what path we should follow to get there, please attend the meeting at the Palmer Depot this Thursday. It's a chance to take part in the dialogue about one of the most important aspects of our community.