In the early 1990s, I served as a city commissioner in Rehoboth Beach. During that time, the Sussex County Library Board approached us about building a new library. The library had long been housed in city hall and later in the former Diamond State Telephone Company building across the street.
After considering several options, the mayor and commissioners agreed that a library, fire hall and post office were essential to the fabric of our town. We ultimately donated the Diamond State building to the library, with the condition that if it ever ceased to operate as a library, ownership – and any improvements – would revert to the city. We simply could not imagine Rehoboth Beach without one.
I share this because libraries are fundamental to strong communities. Throughout my life, I’ve always lived within walking distance or a short drive of a library. It’s hard to imagine not having one nearby. What the Sussex independent libraries are requesting – a modest increase in the library tax – is a small ask compared to the value they provide.
While technology has evolved, the core purpose of libraries has not. They remain places of learning, access and discovery – whether through print, audio or digital media. Many of us can still recall the books read to us as children, and those we’ve shared with our own families.
Today’s libraries offer far more than books. They provide computer access, job training and programming for residents of all ages – services that strengthen the entire community.
I live in a town that experienced one of the largest property tax increases in Sussex County during the recent reassessment – over 133%. Even so, I strongly support this library tax increase. In some communities, such as Milton and Millsboro, taxes actually declined, and in most others, increases were modest.
Sussex County has made its share of poor decisions around growth, density and environmental stewardship – decisions we all live with every day. This is an opportunity to make a good one.
Please support the library tax increase.
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