Reading fiction increases our ability to empathize. When we dive deep enough into another\u2019s story, the world looks a little different when we come back out. We\u2019ve grown in our ability to see the world from someone else\u2019s perspective, and this makes us better listeners and better connectors. Both the giving and the getting of empathy are what heal us from shame. Our culture constantly bombards us with shame, and it\u2019s imperative that we do all we can to foster its antidote.<\/p>\n
Some might think we can accomplish our goals without libraries. I disagree. While it is certainly possible to find the kinds of stories we need on the internet, navigating to them requires quite a bit of skill and self-discipline. Finding an enriching story in the library, however, requires only that we let our kids loose to roam. The format of a real-life book encourages us to take a deep dive. The colors and the tactile experience of books draws children in and delights their senses.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s true that 45ish dollars per household is a chunk of change to pay. But folks in other states who live outside library districts may have to pay three times that to buy in for library services. This money is planned to go for the important stuff \u2014 books, salaries, operations, etc. An investment in libraries is an investment in counteracting the isolation and despair that leads to all kinds of expensive social problems \u2014 depression, anxiety, drug use, racism, vandalism, school shootings, etc. It\u2019s time for us to be proactive and do something good for the future of Garfield County. Please vote \u201cYes\u201d on 6A.<\/p>\n