A lot to love at the library

The citizens committee supporting renewal of the levy for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County adopted the slogan "I u My Library." And even though we are not fond of communicating in hieroglyphics, we have to admit that there is a lot to love at the library.
The library provides immediate access to nearly 1 million books at its 16 locations, as well as free Internet access.
There are also magazines, newspapers and other periodicals. And educational programs for preschoolers through teens are held throughout the month, often themed to the time of year. Adults and senior citizens will enjoy the Readers' Club, Lunch and Learn Series and Conversation Salons.
More than page-turners
There are movies, music CDs and audio books available to all and special out-reach services for the homebound.
Extensive reference materials, including databases that would cost thousands to own, are accessible at no charge -- many of which can be accessed 24/7 from home or office.
Editorial writers can vouch for the helpfulness of the Reference Desk workers in the Information Services Department, who will do their best to answer questions submitted by phone or fax.
The library is facing challenges these days, as demographic patterns shift, older buildings age and Ohio cuts funding for libraries throughout the state.
The library staff is taking on these challenges, attempting to provide the best service to clients throughout the county, while holding down costs
This would certainly not be the time to reduce the library system's income. If that were to happen, library hours would be cut, jobs would be eliminated and some branches would be closed.
We endorse Issue 9, a 1-mill replacement levy that will provide $3.7 million annually for five years to operate the main library and its 15 branches.