As a newly elected member of the Rockport Library Committee, I wanted to share what prompted me to undertake this endeavor. My family has visited the Rockport Public Library at least two times a week for the past four years and always enjoyed the professionalism and enthusiasm that staff holds for community patrons. In this time, I have also served as a community/school member for the Youth Services Librarian position interviews and built a healthy relationship that benefits the students of Camden-Rockport Middle School. As a literacy specialist, I am always looking for local resources where students can practice and hone literacy skills.

However, there has always been a cost for this kindness—crowded quarters, albeit in finding a parking spot or a place to stand when picking up my son from the Wednesday afterschool program. While I appreciate the charm and appeal of the present building, I have seen the changing demographics of this community and recognize the absolute need for a larger library that allows students to engage with books, e-books, computers or homework in a safe place.

As I participated in the Listening Tours and shared the viewpoints of not only my family, but also my students, I realized that the need for an expanded library has been part of the Rockport conversation for several years beyond our time in the community. It is for this reason that I must agree with Dave Jackson's editorial letter of July 23, 2014, and Peter Hall's letter of July 24, 2014. It is time to end the finger pointing and name-calling and focus on the growing needs of Rockport; it is time for a vote.

As a lover of literacy, my community, and a person who recognizes the needs of these efforts, I decided to step up, gather signatures and undergo the election process for the three-year-seat on the Library Committee. I am hopeful that our community will have the opportunity to vote on the direction of the Library Committee and that residents will cast their ballots.

Respectfully
Michelle Gabrielsen
Rockport Library Committee