Dear Editor: As a social studies teacher at South Tahoe High School and the parent of a second grader at Bijou Community School, I want to express my support for Measure B on the June 2nd ballot. Renewing the $25.50 annual parcel tax to fund our local South Lake Tahoe Library is an easy and affordable way to support kids and families in our community.
In a world where information is increasingly blocked by a paywall, our public library gives my students access to great resources at no cost. I frequently encourage my students to use the public library for research. Recently, a student could not find a book they needed for their senior project. The public library was able to get it for them in under a week through Link+, a statewide interlibrary loan program. Another student asked me for help finding books on a topic that interested them and was shocked to find they did not need to buy these books on Amazon, but could check all of them out for free and get them the same day, right after school. Even more important is the haven the library provides to students who either do not have internet at home or do not have a quiet place to complete their homework due to crowded living spaces or homelessness–a reality all too common in our town with the high cost of living.
As a parent, my own family has benefited from the free programs the library offers for literacy and learning. My son attended storytimes as an infant and toddler and now is a regular at RUFF, a program where kids get to read to dogs. We’ve also enjoyed art classes, LEGO parties, and educational events during the summer. All of these enriching experiences have come with no direct cost.
Our library gives students equal access to knowledge and resources that are essential to their educational success. On June 2nd, a yes vote on Measure B assures our youth can continue to benefit from these important services.
James Seider
South Lake Tahoe Resident and Social Studies Teacher at South Tahoe High School