For more than 100 years, the Auburn Public Library has enhanced the quality of life in our community. All of us benefit from this wonderful community resource, which serves people of all ages, regardless of background or income. Imagine what it will mean to children who depend on the library for story time programs and early reading skills if the library is forced to curtail services. Or to schoolchildren who depend on the library for homework materials, or to people seeking information on jobs, health concerns or other subjects. Imagine what it will mean to the quality of life in Auburn if our library is unable to fulfill its mission.

Sadly, that is what will happen if the Palesky tax cap referendum is approved by voters on Election Day. The Auburn Public Library depends on municipal support. Without that support, essential services that benefit all of us will be cut. All of us who care about quality library services must make sure that the Auburn Public Library can continue to meet the needs of our community by voting no on Question 1. We agree that the current tax system must be changed and a fairer system created. However, this is not the way to do it.

Question 1, if approved, would imperil our library. Many people have worked hard and given generously to expand and renovate the library’s historic building. Now we need to help the library continue to flourish. A no vote on Question 1 is one way to help.

Mary Sylvester, Auburn, on behalf of the Friends of the Auburn Public Library executive board

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