On Aug. 6, voters in our community will have the opportunity to renew the millage for the Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library. This millage is a renewal of what currently exists and will serve to finance necessary updates to the library’s facility — a necessary renovation that will make the library a safer and better place to serve our community. With the renovation, humidity will be better controlled, asbestos will be removed, the children’s area will be better protected, and fire and electrical systems will be updated. All necessary updates to ensure that our library can continue to exist and serve our community in the future.

Many of us know the library as a place to check out books — but it is so much more than that. Tutoring services for English learners and those seeking to earn their GED. Programming for children and youth on reading, coding, video game design, astronomy, crafting. Programming for adults on computer skills, social media, music, history. Film screenings, live music performances, author readings and signings. Historical archives and photographs that chronicle our town’s history. Maritime records that are used by scholars around the world.

When it comes time to vote on Aug. 6, I encourage you to vote yes to renew the library’s millage. You will not only be saying yes to allow the much-needed renovation of their facility, but you will be saying yes to ensure that the vital programming and services the library provides to our community and region will be able to continue into the future.

ANNE GENTRY,

Alpena