Petitioner urges council to maintain independence of local libraries

During the recent Acton Select Board meeting, a passionate discussion emerged regarding the future of the town's libraries, particularly the proposed merger of the Memorial Library and the Citizens Library. A long-time resident, who has been part of the community since 1977, voiced strong opposition to the plan, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the current independent operations of the Citizens Library.

The resident highlighted that the Citizens Library has been self-sustaining with some town support and expressed confusion over the need for a merger. They argued that the library has been functioning well, thanks to dedicated volunteers, and that the proposed changes could lead to unnecessary costs for the town. The speaker pointed out that legal fees associated with the merger discussions could be better spent on other community needs.

This sentiment reflects a broader concern among residents about the potential implications of merging the two libraries. The community member urged fellow citizens to consider the financial impact and to vote against the merger proposal during the upcoming town meeting.

In addition to the library discussions, the meeting included various other topics, but the library merger stood out as a significant point of contention, resonating with many residents who value the unique character and independence of their local institutions.

As the town prepares for the upcoming vote, the outcome will likely shape the future of library services in Acton, highlighting the importance of community input in local governance.