I am writing to urge others to write to the mayor and to the library director to oppose the closing of the White Station Public Library. You can write to the library director at the following address:
Call the mayor's office at 901-576-6500.
Here is what I wrote to the library director:
I am saddened to hear of the closing of the White Station Library, which is approximately two blocks from my home. The vital function of this library as an anchor of the community cannot be fulfilled by the Central Library, which is more than 5 miles away. In addition to serving as a place where families can check out books and other resources, the White Station Library sponsors 12-step groups and other important community meetings. It is one of the few public places where all members of the community can come together for free.
City planners know that one of the qualities of a sustainable community is the ability to walk to community amenities such as schools, churches, synagogues, parks, restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, and LIBRARIES. We long ago lost the sense of connection and continuity that neighborhood schools gave us. Now we are losing the second major anchor of our community life.
How can the city leadership ask taxpayers to continue paying more for taxes while undermining the very nature of community? Does the city not wonder why its tax base is fleeing as fast as it can for communities like Olive Branch? I have been in the process of renovating my home so I could stay in it after retirement. Now, I have to put the brakes on renovation and reconsider my commitment to staying in the city of Memphis. I wonder how many others will do the same?
This is a very poor decision. I oppose it.
Margaret Carbaugh
