The purpose of this letter is to once again emphasize the importance of our Libraries as economic engines. We have a tremendous set of employers at Stennis Space Center who would love to be able to recruit employees locally. And we have many citizens who would love to work at Stennis. There are 5000+ jobs at Stennis and about 40%, around 2000 jobs, do not require a college degree. Our Libraries (Picayune and Poplarville) provide the bridge that connects the two. I am pleased that the Item’s Opinion article from the 3 September 2015 issue makes that very clear. I have also pointed this out to the listeners to my radio program on WRJW, “Spotlight on Stennis Space Center”.

Now that our Libraries have fiber optic connections to the Internet they are able to accommodate many more computer connections and at faster speeds than before. With more computers and hours of operation more patrons can be served each day and more jobs can be filled by our citizens.

I hope it is clear that our Libraries are an investment in economic well being and that they are limited only by the amount of funding support they receive. Being an investment, they can give back more when they receive more support. Fully funding our Libraries is a smart thing to do and will benefit the County and its citizens. Our Board of Supervisors will be voting on the County Budget which includes the Libraries next Tuesday, 15 September 2015. If you agree that our libraries are an economic investment, please call and encourage then to strongly consider the benefits obtained by fully funding them. Thank you.

By Clifford “Randy” Holland