Your Library Connection
I am honored to have our Library Board President, Bill Stamper, as the guest writer for this month’s column. Bill is a pleasure to work with and has been a strong advocate for our public library and new library project. Enjoy his article…it’s straight from the heart!
Laura Blaker, Library Director
A PROUD PAST—A PROGRESSIVE FUTURE
By Bill Stamper, IPL Board President
When I was asked to serve on the library board by the major, I had no idea where that
little word “yes” would take me over the next three years. Like some of you I was skeptical of the role and the needs of a library in the 21st century. I found I had very little knowledge of the workings and facility needs for a well functioning public library and how important it could and should be to the vitality of our community. Unlike most of you however, I have had the opportunity to be a part of many meetings and programs. Very honestly I can tell you, anyone who has been a part of these decisions came away with the same conclusion—we do need a new library and this library will be a vital part of a strong community in the 21st century.
Originally one of the primary roles of a library was to provide access to information and materials for those who may not be able to afford it otherwise. The need for this kind of access has not been diminished but has grown exponentially with the influx of technology. To level the playing field with books and magazines was the vision of the early pioneers and some of us may still see this as the only role. The new vision includes not only reading materials but computers, software and other opportunities which many may be able to afford but others cannot. Our willingness to help provide these services in Independence says much about who we are and what we believe is important.
The city council, library board and many community members have worked very hard to get us to this point. We have certainly not agreed on every aspect of the project but it has been very gratifying to see the give and take, which means the needs of our community are more important than any individual feelings. Cooperation does not mean we all agree totally; it does mean we are able to see a bigger picture which can only be achieved by working together.
If you have doubts about the “need” for a new library, I would ask you not to necessarily visit ours only, but take the time to travel north to Oelwein or Sumner, west to Jesup or Hudson, south to Marion, Anamosa, North Liberty, or east to Manchester or Dyersville. These communities as well as many others in the state have recognized the importance of an up-to-date and forward looking public library. Won’t it be nice when people say, “Let’s go to Independence and check out their library. I hear it is very energy efficient, usable and attractive.”
I would like to extend an invitation for you to join our campaign to build a new library in our community. A financial pledge or gift would be greatly appreciated and is very important, but if you cannot support the project financially at the present time, we would encourage your vocal support and invite you to get involved in the other ways when possible. Many thanks to all who have worked and contributed to make this dream become a reality. Our goal is to make our campaign slogan, “A Proud Past—A Progressive Future,” ring true once more in Independence.
Other Building Project Articles:
Donation Form
Fundraising Event - SPELLBOUND!
Library Campaign Passes $2.5 Million
Library Campaign Awarded CAT
Grant!
How Can I Help the Library Reach Goal?
Answers to Capital Campaign Questions
Frequently Asked Questions and Thoughts about the
New Library
Building Plans Detailed
Elevations and Floor Plan
Campaign Chair Selected
Site and
Architect
Children's
Area
Top 10 Reasons
a New Public Library is Needed
Young Adult
Area
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