Librarian asks people to sign letter of support

Courtesy photo JASPER LIBRARIAN Denise Milton (left), Montgomery librarian Jerri Lynn Williams, and Newton librarian Sharon Long met with Senator Robert Nichols on library funding issues.

Jasper Public Library director Denise Milton attended Texas Library Association Legislative Day in Austin Feb. 6.

When she returned, she drafted a letter in support of library funding and is asking library patrons to come by and sign the letter, which will be sent to Senator Robert Nichols and all District 3 representatives, Byron Cook, John Otto, Charles Hopson, Wayne Christian, Mike Hamilton and Jim McReynolds.

In part, her letter says, "More than ever, the people of Texas need improved learning resources and opportunities...

"As Texas looks to increase the use of technology in learning environments, provide equity in learning, and promote efficiency in funding higher education, an investment in quality digital educational resources for all Texas will deliver a stronger statewide learning infrastructure."

Milton cited a study by the National Center for Education Statistics that says Texas spends only 14 cents per capita for public libraries. The funding request would raise that to 50 cents per capita.

The library is located at 175 E. Water St. and is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.