This letter to the editor by Eileen Wysocki appeared in the October 22, 2026 edition of the Post Independent.
The Garfield County libraries, particularly the location in New Castle, helped me at a time in my life when I was really struggling.
I had a young son, and I worked nights while my husband worked days because we wanted to be home with our son and because we frankly didn’t have money for day care.
Story time at the library became a weekly outing for us. It was free, and in addition to listening to the teacher read countless wonderful children’s books, they also had fantastic arts and crafts projects for the kids. My son is an only child, so this also gave him the opportunity to socialize with other kids his age.
And through story time, I also met some wonderful friends, some of whom are still great friends of mine now. The bonds I have with these friends and their children are what got me through the loneliness and difficulties of raising a young child without family nearby.
We also created a play group, where we would rotate going to each other’s houses or sometimes meet at a local playground, go for hikes and explore our wonderful area. All of this started with story time at the library.
Libraries bring the community together. They provide a safe space for learning and provide equal access to books, computers and printers for people of all socioeconomic backgrounds. The librarians are also a wealth of information and willing to help anyone.
I urge the voters of Garfield County to continue to fund this precious resource by extending the existing mill levy to support the Garfield County libraries.
Eileen Wysocki, New Castle