I got my first library card at age 7 at a small town public library. The librarian made me feel like a real person! Through my life I've used the library and taken my kids there. I so appreciate librarians' courage in these days of censorship and cruelty. Libraries are not only good for individuals, they are essential institutions in a free society.

My life is complicated and messy and I can’t afford to buy all of the books I want to read. My library has provided me with solace in the ability to read without limits.

Libraries have been a life saver for me my entire life. I was a military brat but wherever we moved, the library, both military and civilian, was a source for entertainment, learning, and comfort. I was privileged to have a good education via military schools, but the library continues to provide the resources for life long learning. I can’t imagine a world without libraries.

I suffered a concussion and post concussion syndrome. The only thing that helps me rest my brain is audio books. The only way I can afford to have a steady stream of audiobooks to rest with so I can get back to using my brain, is the library and specifically access to Libby and hoopla. I wouldn’t be able to get through the day without these resources.

Our library in Stoughton is amazing. It has been a remarkable opportunity for kids, families and the entire community to find joy, entertainment, instructional sources, and most importantly one of the very few communal spaces where people can gather and support each other. The ESL and senior programs as well as the kids and teens targeted programs have been pivotal to bring the community together even beyond our town boundaries to the larger State and Country identity.