I write in support of the Marshalltown Public Library and its excellent director, Sarah Rosenblum. Our library does so much more than provide our citizens free access to books and other reading materials, although the importance of that service cannot be underestimated. The library offers quality programming to children and the community at large. It hosts community organizations in its meeting rooms and provides computer access to our residents.

Under the guidance of Ms. Rosenblum, the library now offers expanded hours, was the only library in Iowa to host The Americans and the Holocaust traveling exhibition, and has done an outstanding job meeting the needs of our diverse community.

When the Courthouse was closed following the devastating 2018 tornado, the Marshall County Attorney’s Office held numerous meetings with victims, witnesses, and community partners in the library meeting rooms. I’m sure we weren’t the only community organization for whom the library stepped up and provided space to continue to do our jobs.

My children have loved going to the library from a very young age. I’m so grateful they have access to this crucial community resource. I sense that our community is very supportive of the Marshalltown Public Library. I trust our elected leaders will continue to fully support the library. After all, that really amounts to supporting our citizens.