Libraries are the repositories of the knowledge of our civilization. They should be honored and cherished.
That is why the Friends of the Enoch Pratt Free Library Inc. were dismayed and angered at the proposed further cuts ("Baltimore City Council, Rawlings-Blake reach budget deal," June 17).
To add to the insult, the Baltimore City Council has been asked to chose between services that enhance the quality of life for the residents our city.
The Friends of the Enoch Pratt Free Library Inc. was founded some 40 years ago for the sole purpose of supporting the library's staff and board of trustees and to make the public aware of this wonderful resource.
We do this through outreach programs in communities and schools and by contacting our legislators and supporting branch library activities. From toddlers to readers to researchers to seniors, we are the organization that represents all those who use this free service.
The Pratt has been designated the Maryland Resource Library. Yet it has been historically underfunded and is working on a limited hours-of-operation schedule.
Many people do not realize that working families and their children use the library for after-school care and activities, and this places another burden on our limited resources.
The latest cut of $100,000 is for "materials." Materials is a euphemism for books and other learning materials. This cut could effect summer reading programs.
And let us not forget that during the 2015 unrest while the CVS at Pennsylvania and North avenues was still smoldering, the library directly across the street remained open. It was a haven, a place of stability and civility in a troubled neighborhood during a troubled time.
So before the taking the final vote on this budget cut, please think of all that the Pratt does for Baltimore. It is one of the most efficient and effective agencies serving this city.
Sally T. Grant
The writer is treasurer of the Friends of the Enoch Pratt Free Library Inc.