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Nothing stands out more in a small community than a first-class library.

It's a meeting place for all ages. It's a resource for young and old. It's a statement that the community values education, life-long learning and communication with the rest of the world.

On Nov. 1, we have a chance to cast a vote that will upgrade our well-used Bud Werner Memorial Library, turning it into a centerpiece of the community. On the average, almost 700 people use our library every day. Space is in short supply. The roof leaks when it rains. The children's reading area floods on occasion. And the six connections for Internet users are woefully inadequate for this cyber-savvy generation.

We are asked to vote on two resolutions: 5A and 5B. 5B will authorize a 20-year bond issue that will make possible the remodeling and construction necessary for a library that will have adequate space and resources for at least 25 years. 5A commits property owners to a mill levy that will assure the library of adequate funds to maintain the new structure forever. It is essential to vote yes on both. No matter what our economic future, the library will continue to get increasingly heavy use, and it will need a budget to keep the facility functioning as planned.

Committees have been hard at work for seven years to develop the proposed facility expansion plan. Input from many groups has been solicited.

From the architecture to the internal facilities, all age groups and interests have been considered. The plan is efficient, it retains the heritage of the Bud Werner Memorial Library, and when complete, it will be an enormous source of pride for all of us. For a small community, this is a big issue. A yes vote on 5A and 5B is the most positive statement we can make in support of the people and the quality of life of this community.

Daniel Tyler

Steamboat Springs