Please, Middlebury, say yes on May 7 to funding a renovated and expanded Ilsley Public Library! For years, despite the severe limitations of its current building, Ilsley has been among the most visited libraries in the state. 

Why? Because its devoted staffers and the programs they offer keep the public coming. Why? Because youth programs have long attracted young readers and parents, despite the children’s section’s location in a leaky basement. Why? Because Ilsley welcomes all, of whatever means or background.

Think of what Ilsley brings to our community now … and then multiply it tenfold, because that is what the new plans will bring about. With welcoming, accessible entrances; light-filled spaces; an open and highly flexible floorplan to allow adaptation to future needs; and a large, tech-equipped community meeting room. And all of this will be available to everyone, including technology and other services to underserved communities.

It is time to say yes to our grandchildren and their grandchildren — let’s build a modern library for them.

Kate Gridley and John Barstow

Middlebury