I am a retired librarian and I question why libraries in Vancouver are not totally open. I use the Cascade Park Community Library on 136th Avenue and have never seen as many people there at one time as I see at Fred Meyer, Safeway, Michaels, and other stores. I believe if rules are followed such as wearing masks and maintaining social distancing, libraries are perfectly safe.
When children are kept from schools, a library is a place where computers can be used, and books can be browsed and checked out. Parents, some of whom may not have books or computers in the home, can use computers to apply for a job, read a newspaper, find places to apply for help or do research. Those with money can work online at home and order books and other print materials from an online vendor. If money is limited, then that is not an option.
Children need to be introduced to books and learn to love them and to become proficient in reading. This may be even more necessary now with schools closed and opening later rather than sooner.
I plan to write to our governor and encourage him to open libraries immediately. I hope that library administrators will do the same.
