I appreciated Jan Barrett’s column Jan. 23 on the need for more economic and social connections between Bates College and the local community. It is, indeed, an evolution that is ever-changing. I would like to add a few facts about strong bonds that already exist, particularly in regard to Museum L/A.

Bates has been involved in Museum L/A in diverse ways. Volunteers initially assisted with physical tasks, such as moving files and setting up exhibits. A student researched and prepared the photo exhibit for the millworkers’ reunion last fall. Faculty and students have had wonderful opportunities to work with archival and primary source material. Currently, students from anthropology and American cultural studies are collecting oral histories. We are excited by and grateful for the museum’s willingness to incorporate us into their work and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.

While the perception that “there is very little contact between the average Batesie and L-A” is sometimes accurate, over half of our student body report that they engage in community service or service-learning during their four years at Bates. In 2003-04, the Center for Service-Learning documented over 50,000 hours of academically related and volunteer work.

I strongly agree with the column’s lead-in statement, “There is an opportunity for more connections between Bates and the community waiting to be explored.” Based on past experience, we believe that these connections will be built on existing successes.

Susan B. Martin,

assistant director, Bates College

Center for Service-Learning,

Lewiston