DEAR EDITOR:

I’m writing to support the existing Poland Library. I’d like to take all who are reading this on a walk there because it’s the best way to experience the bond between the library and the community.

I lived on Cortland Street, and I’ve made this walk hundreds of times. Come with me.

As you walk down Cortland toward Main Street, you pass several historic houses, and, when you near the corner, the Poland Town Hall sits on your right, directly across Main from the library. One building speaks of the historic past and the other gracefully blends past and present. As you cross Main, you’re crossing Poland’s holiday parade route. On Memorial Day and during Celebrate Poland weekend, all the marchers pass the library.

Walk down the library’s driveway and you’re right beside the historic home that’s incorporated into its design — Poland’s last living WWI vet lived there! And now, you’re in the parking lot encircled by Yellow Creek.

Enter the library. You’ll probably recognize friends at tables in the cafe. But, first, go upstairs to the main floor to see how the windows, front and back, keep the building full of light — perfect for its purpose. Find a book. Sit for a while in the reading room. Glance out at Yellow Creek and the Memorial Bridge, named for two of Poland’s Vietnam vets. Listen to children’s voices as they enjoy reading in the children’s area.

And, all around you, look at the watercolors by Al Parella, a Poland artist. Many are full of Poland, the woods, the bluebells and Poland residents.

Stay awhile.

As the USA enters its 250th year, will we lose this building with its perfect union of present and past? I hope not.

ELIZABETH FORD

Struthers