Libraries Are Key Link to Democracy

As we celebrate the July 4th holiday, I know we will be reflecting on our country’s history. I hope we also focus on how to keep democracy alive in this great country.

Democracy occurs when people are informed and empowered. As we approach the beginning of the 21st century, one of our nationwide agendas should be human empowerment.

Through freedom of information, libraries create hope and possibility for people. Hope and possibility create empowerment.

What stand we take or don’t take for libraries in Ventura County influences empowerment everywhere. Empowerment creates self-reliance and we all benefit.

What would happen if all people were informed and empowered?

Ventura County in its stand for libraries can create a breakthrough in empowerment. As Andrew Carnegie said, “I am not giving a contribution to libraries, I am investing in my future and the future of my country.”

TRISH CAVANAUGH

Ventura