After attending a recent Selectboard meeting in Meriden regarding the proposal to build a new Meriden public library, I feel that I can longer keep quiet on the matter. I’ve read too many Forum letters that are negative and mean-spirited against those who desire a new library in Meriden.
I understand the concern over potentially increasing taxes, and would not want someone to suffer or have to leave town because of a new library. I don’t think anyone who is for the building of a new library would want that, which is why my husband and I, as well as members of the Meriden Library Foundation, have been working very hard to raise enough money privately so that taxes would not need to be raised by much, if at all.
However, what I can’t understand is the vehemence and anger around the idea of having two wonderful, community-serving and enriching libraries in our beloved town. After all, aren’t libraries a good thing for a community? What a joy to have such an interest in reading and going to the library in an era when technology and social media threaten to decrease community involvement, and even literacy.
We can reach and attract even more people to our town, and continue to support this thriving community in as many ways as possible by creating a better Meriden library. Unfortunately, simply updating the library would be more costly than building a new one.
If it’s truly a matter of not being able to pay taxes, then let’s really address that issue. Surely, there are other ways to lower taxes. Is choosing not to update the Meriden Library really the only way that some people in our town can continue to live here? That seems to be the sentiment of many people who are against the building of a new library. If so, then let’s raise even more money to fund the library!
I believe in having two wonderful libraries in our town so much that I’m willing to continue fundraising to the point that no one will have to increase their taxes for this project. If everyone who was against the new library only for the sake of taxes came together and said “Yes” to making our town even better, and put that energy toward this positive change in our community, just think of what we could do.
Let’s be creative and work together on this issue. If we truly are one town, then let’s act like it and support both sides in all endeavors which enhance our town for everyone. Let’s do better than our divided country and work together rather than against each other.
It was also mentioned at the meeting that some people do not feel comfortable speaking up in public because they are afraid of being shamed by others in our town. I believe that is unacceptable for our community and we all need to take a look at ourselves and see how we can be better in matters such as these. Personally, I’m terrified of speaking at town meeting, but have done so because of something that I believe in. I encourage others to overcome their fears, and let their voices be heard.
No matter what happens to the future of the Meriden Library, I promise to be kind and courteous to those who have opposed it, and treat them with an open mind and respect. I hope that everyone else can do the same, no matter their personal beliefs on the subject. After all, we are neighbors, we share this beautiful town, we are stronger when we support each other, and we all deserve respect.
Vicki Ramos-Glew lives in Plainfield.