A library is more than a repository for books. It’s a living, breathing entity that is representative of a community’s desire to learn and become more engaged with the world.

On Nov. 3, voters in Marshalltown will be asked to approve a levy that would, in essence, increase the library’s outreach and program offerings, expand the availability of books and other resource materials, improve technology and extend hours to Sundays.

For me, this is a wise investment of taxpayer dollars because the library is so much more than a place to check out great literature or to do genealogy research. It’s the community gathering place where young and old are enlightened through programming, meetings, special events. It enriches our lives, creates opportunity for those who have limited income and resources.

In 2014, nearly 300,000 people visited the library with just more than 287,000 items being checked out. More than 57,000 computer sessions were facilitated and nearly 15,000 children attended at least one of 465 programs offered.

Those numbers alone are impressive compared to other communities our size that do not see that kind of citizen engagement. The Marshalltown Public Library is truly a shining star within our community.

Despite that, the budget for the library is and always will be tight. The library’s director, Sarah Rosenblum, and her staff have worked diligently to create an environment that is both educational and welcoming while being frugal with taxpayer dollars.

As to the proposed levy, we’re not talking about a great deal of money – for example, the average home with an assessed value of $115,000 would pay an additional $2.50 in tax dollars per month – that’s equal to two RedBox rentals, a cup of coffee or two packs of gum. That’s no sacrifice considering what we’ll gain by making sure our library remains accessible and that one place where the community can come together for a myriad of programs and opportunities.

The library is a lighthouse, especially for those who value education, community engagement and programming that illuminates our lives.

Let’s not shortchange the library and vote yes on Nov. 3.

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Contact Jeff Hutton at 641-753-6611 or jhutton@timesrepublican.com