The library has been my safe haven since I was a small child. It has helped me as I grew up, from providing me the first books I used to learn to read, to books that helped me get through my classes, and to books that have helped me relax as a working adult. The library has also provided me with resources to pursue hobbies outside of reading: I have learned to play the piano via renting a keyboard, I have tried out new board games, and I have strengthened my mystery solving skills with puzzles. The library has helped me with printing important documents when I didn’t have a printer, and helped me with my resume to find jobs. When I moved to a new town, and I didn’t know anyone, the library provided me with plenty of events to socialize and gain a sense of community. The library has done so much for so many people, and I cannot imagine a life without it.

I cannot imagine the Charlton library( or any libraries) loosing its funding. Not only do I visit, get books, puzzles and magazines that help me discern decision making on products but I have an endless of reading material that I use daily on my kindle. I spend a great deal of time in the children’s room with my granddaughter who is now 22 months. Because of the library and its story time my granddaughter cannot get enough of books and reading. The library is safe, fun and nurturing to all people. Please SAVE OUR LIBRARIES!!!! Barbara Perron Charlton

I am an avid reader. Not only of novels, but a high proportion of Non-fiction, history, political commentary, science, medical research. I depend on the library(s) to supply me with the wonderful level choices that I now enjoy. Curtailing the ability of the library to continually supply me with the wealth of the world in print would have a tremendously deleteorious effect on my ability to remain alert and cognizant of my place as an active citizen.

I have used libraries across Massachusetts for many years. As a Brockton native, and current Taunton resident I can remember days where a trip to the library after school was my only solace from my home life. Taking part in activities, and going with my friends to check out books meant that I did not have to roam the streets, or take part in unsafe activities everyone else was interested in at the time. Even now, I use the library to explore books I could not otherwise access. Ones recommended by friends online, ones that can not be borrowed by a neighbor- and as a way to expand my knowledge with new books I didn't even KNOW I wanted. Not only that, but the community events is just another amazing thing Taunton Library provides, it brings a sense of togetherness amongst other participating residents in the city.

I often go in planning to pick up 1 book for my child and walk out with a whole bag of books, movies and games for the whole family. I love all that my library has to offer in terms of programming. It is truly at the heart of my community.

Quality, caring employees. Free hands on books/stories. Free access to magazines (ie consumer reports) that let me do research. Safe, beautiful space.

The library is so important to me, and so is the library app! I listen to audiobooks daily. As someone with adhd, have accessed so much literature that I never would have read had audiobooks not been an option. Thank you!

I read to my 4 month old from the huge collection of stories supplied by the library. I hope one day to pass the love of reading onto him.

Some of my favorite memories of growing up are the weekend trips where my dad would take me to the library. Initially, he would help me pick out books, and as I grew older we would separate so he could pick out his books while I picked out mine. These library treks not only helped foster my love of reading, but also were a great way to spend time with my dad. Libraries are so important!!

I was laid off several months ago and am having a hard time finding a job in an exceptionally rough labor market. With money tight, I can’t justify buying books or audiobooks. I’m very grateful I have access to Libby, where I’ve checked out books about money management, financial planning, and other topics, including how to cope in difficult times. These books have offered help and guidance at a much lower cost than a state program would. I’ve also checked out items from my local library to prepare for job interviews, so that I can increase my chances of landing a job (and ending my dependence on state unemployment insurance).

Libraries have been an integral part of my life since I was a young child and loss /diminishment of its services would impact me in an extremely negative way. I have fond memories of browsing in the stacks as a child regularly and choosing books to read. As a young parent I enjoyed hanging out there with my kids in the welcoming children’s area, reading and choosing beautifully illustrated books. During the pandemic, I was able to continue finding materials due to the institution of curbside pickup. Today the library and the Libby app are where I weekly find the books, e-books, audiobooks, and DVDs that enrich my life so substantially. I rarely buy books, except for others occasionally. The library is a welcoming space for all, and in addition to books offers connection, and all sorts of programs for all ages. Kudos to the kind, helpful and friendly library staff I have known over the years.

There are very few manmade places in the world that are truly, one hundred percent win-wins -- and libraries are one of them. Libraries provide literally millions of books, movies, and games to the public across the globe, with no cost to their patrons at all -- but they're more than that. Libraries are also safe spaces; they are welcoming and free communities for anyone to join, refuges for people struggling to find employment or sanctuary or comfort. And these days, libraries have expanded their services even more, including everything from movie showings to concerts to craft lessons to exercise classes. I truly cannot think of a better public space than a library, for any one, of any age or circumstance.

I love how the library helps to broaden my horizons and perspectives. Fiction, non fiction, magazines, audiobooks, museum passes.

I love the Bellingham Public Library! The weekly stitching group has allowed me to both, work on a relaxing craft to unwind from a busy work day and to meet new people. I am grateful for the wonderful individuals who created the group and the library staff who keep the library running. This library is helping me connect to my community-members and improving my quality of life.