President Franklin D. Roosevelt stated “Libraries are… essential to the functioning of a democratic society…libraries are the great symbols of the freedom of the mind.” He believed that knowledge was essential to effective democracy.
There is no more democratic place to gain knowledge than in a public library alongside immigrant families, the under-employed, senior citizens and others who depend on its services being available free of charge. Public libraries are literacy centers preparing children for life. They are sources of citizenship information and education, and the trained staff, creative programs and well-chosen book collections at the 32 Great River Regional Library locations enhance the quality of life for all members of the larger Central Minnesota community.
We passionately support the ideal that library users deserve access to knowledge and resources no matter their ability to pay. Therefore, in contrast to other governmental agencies, GRRL does not charge fees for most services, programs or events. Yet the cost of operating your library has increased while tax revenues are under considerable pressure. Having efficient computers, educational programming and attractive books filled with current information requires robust revenue streams including private support from people like you.
Your support ensures your community will have access to high quality information, resources and technology when they need it. Your donation today will allow us to provide more technology classes for seniors, more homework help for teens, more eBooks and eAudiobooks, and more programs  that help children develop the skills for future success.
Please invest in your library. Our goal for the 2012 appeal is $45,000, which is the cost of approximately 1,500 hardcover books, 500 eBooks, or subscriptions to resources such as Pronunciator, our new language learning service. Your gift, no matter the size, really will make a difference. Take a moment right now to make your 2012 tax-deductible contribution using the secure PayPal online donor page.
Thank you for your support.