Please keep the Hot Sulphur library open

My family and I have lived in Grand County for 34 years. My husband and I raised three boys, each graduating with honors from Middle Park High School. I have taught in the public school system as well, having retired ten years ago. Throughout this time, we have watched the population of the county grow. To keep up with the demands of the community, the library system blossomed. The collection of excellent books bring information, and provide an environment that allows the imagination to grow. The pioneers that came 150 years ago, knew the necessity of having a library in their community. Schools, libraries, churches, places to gather… essential pieces that drew others from the eastern seaboard to explore and settle in the frontier. Towns grew. People came. As the necessary amenities were ignored, or reduced, the draw to settle in a community was eroded. Due to budgets, Grand County has already lost one elementary school in Grand Lake . If I were in my 20s or 30s and had children, this would not be a positive piece in my decision to relocate. I would want a school in my community. I would also want a library.

Yes, we have four other libraries in the county; Granby being the closest to Hot Sulphur. But it is a bit of a drive. Easy access in a loving comfortable environment is the demanding ingredient of the love of books to be “caught.” You cannot teach this love…it must be experienced. Families in Hot Sulphur are cut off from the Granby exposure by the 10 miles. Property development is growing in the Hot Sulphur direction due to more reasonable real estate values. This growth is a positive piece of the county’s economy. The opportunity is rich for many. But if the basic pillars of a healthy community are eliminated, then the growth will not happen. Many children in Hot Sulphur can now walk to the library (which is a rare opportunity in Denver), but will not be able to do so if the library is closed. Successful young adults in todays world that were raised in Hot Sulphur, have memories of Children’s Story hour, art activities, life skills, tutoring etc. in the Hot Sulphur Library. Each opportunity led to their success as they now contribute to making the world of today a better one. Please keep the library at Hot Sulphur open.

Ann Heckman

Granby