If you’re looking for the heart of any community, look no further than the local library. Its doors are open to everyone.
So far this year, 177,000 Orange County residents have visited a local library and almost 50,000 of them used the public computers. They look to the library for help in filling out a job application online, using our various resources to pass an exam, checking out books for themselves or to read to their children. For some, the library is their only access to education beyond a high school level. In reality, libraries are the heart of Orange County because we are able to impact everyone who walks through our doors, no matter where they are in life.
Libraries are identified as part of the quality of life for a community. When evaluating a community, a new resident or business owner takes into account how well the library is supported and the type of resources it offers. A vibrant library is indeed the focal point of activity and growth, providing additional support for economic development.
Like all counties, Orange County has significant and pressing needs – like improving schools, infrastructure, emergency medical services and libraries.
On Nov. 2, Orange County voters will have the opportunity to vote for or against a quarter-of-a-penny sales tax increase. If passed, 42.5 percent of the funding will go to schools, 42.5 percent to economic development and 15 percent will be split between emergency medical services and libraries. The proposed County Sales and Use Tax increase does not apply to groceries, gas or most prescription medications. It’s important to provide Orange County taxpayers with alternatives to the pressure to raise property taxes to address these and other county needs.
Thank you, and remember to vote on Nov. 2.
Lucinda M. Munger
Orange County Library Director