For anyone making their way through this most amazing journey called life, one must be curious and open to other peoples’ stories. Stories connect us, and help us find our way or make our way.

Our most beloved libraries invite us at any time of our lives to expand our understanding of ourselves, our place, our community, as well as our world. Our libraries are our safe places to go, to grow, to make sense of our world and to fully realize our authentic self. Our libraries help us re-imagine our collective responsibility to all of our citizens. It is inclusive.

When a person or ideology based on discrimination imposes their judgmental opinions, and tries to ban or restrict access to books, it is dangerous and hateful. What is even more shameful is that those who want to violate our collective constitutional protections are claiming it is for the protection of our children.

I am hopeful that my community will continue to support the current library policies, and assume the best of human nature. And, that those able to vote for the recall of Seaside City Councilor Steve Dillard will do so because of his actions taken to either ban or restrict access to current books our library includes.

MARY BLAKE

Seaside