I am speaking out regarding the Aug. 6 election proposal for the Alpena County Library.

My family moved to the area two years ago, and, as we explored our new home, we found ourselves repeatedly impressed. We are avid homeschoolers and found an incredible support system through the Partnership, we love the outdoors and found a variety of public trails and beaches, and we are small business owners and found encouragement and networking.

Not to mention enjoying the many offerings Alpena has produced: like the Alpena Community College, the Besser Museum, Art In the Loft, NOAA, and the Alpena County Library. When I first brought my daughter to the library, we were blown away! The beauty of the building, the innumerable opportunities, classes, activities, and educational adventures that it created was remarkable. I felt the library had thought of nearly everyone in its community and tried to offer them something.

Now we are looking forward to the summer reading program! Beginning June 15, the goal is 300,000 hours, coupled with fun activities. We already have our books picked out!

We’re lucky and proud to call Alpena our home. We come from a place very much like Alpena, and sadly I saw my birthplace ruined. I don’t want that future for Alpena, and, in this day and age, it’s a real possibility. The loss of such a foundational element of a community, the loss of a library can be a death stroke for a town. But, more than that, this library is unique! It truly has its whole community in mind and endeavors to offer as much as it can, while actively growing those offerings.

In this spirit, it must be actively protected. Every vote counts, please mark the date, and protect our beautiful community, protect Alpena County Library.

JULIE ANN GANDULLA,

Alpena