A20: Rally for Public Libraries

Some civic needs can only be met by the government. And one of the best examples can be found in our public libraries, which are currently in danger of being closed, or severely cut in Cincinnati. And the city branches are first on the chopping block.

This might appear to make sense, given the growth in the suburbs. But who needs those books more - the kid from a crime-ridden neighborhood or the kid from subdevelopment with a middle class family? The answer is actually both. We shouldn't have to choose. The social pathologies are different - gangs, maybe, versus Harris/Klebold suburban ennui - but books and education are a part of the same antidote in both instances. In our media age we need literacy more than ever. Go cut something else, or take more of my taxes.

If you work downtown, or if you're anywhere near the area, stop by Fountain Square on April 20th at 1:00 to rally in support of public libraries. I'll be there.