08-04-2025
Republican plan would destroy Ohio's cherished libraries
I have had a library card since I first learned to write out my name, proudly carrying home my four books and anticipating a return trip. As a young mom, trips to the library for story hour, passing rainy days and yes, looking for guides on raising children were all a part of family life. Summer reading programs are a family tradition.
My family has called on our libraries to learn computer skills, job seeking help, applying to college. I have tutored adult learners at the library, attended lectures and social meetings. Borrowing media of all types continues to be part of my life.
More: Lawmakers propose $45M in cuts to Ohio libraries in state budget plan
Millions of Ohioans share similar experiences. Libraries are the hallmark of democracy, providing services to all without asking the price of admission. Services that today's libraries provide were not even thought of a generation ago.
The Ohio House proposed budget includes cuts to our community libraries. This monumental mistake goes against everything Ohioans value. It may save a few dollars but would impoverish communities and our State. The Ohio General Assembly must not use the budget to destroy our public libraries.
Joy Bishop, Washington Court House
Is corporate greed already infecting our government services? I was on the phone for two hours a few days ago trying to get answers from Social Security. 'Your call is important to us, please be patient.'
Then, it was interrupted by a live person asking: 'Would you like to see if you qualify for a free emergency button to get immediate assistance in case of a fall?'
I don't have a need for one, but I thought it would be good to have one that I could show to other residents of my retirement home. So, I answered 'yes.' What followed was about 20+ minutes of questions from this young lady, (age, health, physical condition, etc.) concluding with the declaration that, 'You are qualified to receive this free life-saving appliance.' This was followed with: 'Your only obligation is to pay the monthly service fee of $49!' I said: 'No, thank you,' and hung up!
I was astonished — this sort of a trick on a government phone call? Is this something new, or have I just escaped this sort of commercial abuse until now?
Michael Greenman, Columbus
Congratulations on making it through another Ohio winter!
As we move into the warmer months, I'm paying extra attention to applying my sunscreen in the morning — and as a pediatrician, I'm also taking the time to remind my patients' families to do the same. Everyone benefits from wearing sunscreen no matter the age or skin tone.
While the incidence of skin cancer is relatively low in the pediatric population, it has been increasing over time. We also know that a significant amount of a person's lifetime sun exposure occurs before the age of 18, making sun protection in childhood extra important.
There are many actions that can decrease this UV exposure and potential negative effects of too much sun. Applying at least 30 SPF sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days, is one of the best. Make it part of the morning routine, find combination moisturizers/sunscreens — anything that can be done to make it a consistent part of life.
You can also consider wearing sun-protective clothing and minimizing the amount of time spent in peak sun exposure.
Maria Jose Guerrero, Columbus
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Cuts to Ohio libraries would go against all we stand for | Letters
