Message from the Chair

Robert G. Burden
Past Chair, Arlington Public Library Foundation
Board of Directors

Ever wonder what makes a city great or what attracts others to move there? Although they are important, it’s not the buildings, the parks, the stores, the churches, or even the jobs. In the case of Arlington, I think most of us moved here because of the people we found. It’s the people we live with and their attitudes that make living here worthwhile.

I have lived in Arlington for a little over thirty years. Like many people, I moved here to attend the University of Texas at Arlington but I liked what I found and I haven’t left. The attitude was, and remains, positive.

A reflection of that attitude can be seen in the schools, in our city, and even in the library system the city maintains. People want the best for their kids so they want an excellent school system. People also want a chance for themselves. In both situations, I think it is important they are given a place to help them excel and that place, for many, is the library. A well equipped library can provide a place for kids to study, learn, and “get ahead” after their school day is over. It can provide a place for adults to continue learning.

So what makes a first-class library system? In today’s computer age some people seem to think that libraries are obsolete but I think they’re wrong. If you search a subject on the internet you sometimes find so many “hits” that it’s hard to know which one is valid or best. Whether you’re looking for something in print or on the internet, the library is staffed with people who are trained to find the information you need and, most importantly, willing to help. Libraries provide people, some of whom have no other place to go, with the books, computers and an atmosphere to learn. Libraries give people a chance to succeed at whatever their goals may be.

So where does all of this leave us? Our elected City Council wants a first-class library system just as we do but at the same time has many other issues to consider. Therefore, to keep a truly first-class system, we need your help. Think of it as giving back for the opportunities the city of Arlington has given to you, of helping a person you may meet one day and call a friend, or even helping yourself. Please join the Foundation in helping the Arlington Public Library remain a first-class system.

	Greg Morse Chair Joe Bruner Vice Chair Jacob Cline Secretary/Treasurer
Ruthie Brock Glenn Celerier Kay Chaney Corrynne Galloway Nancy Hadaway		Mike Patterson Jack Wages Terry Wang Khayan Williams
	Cary Siegfried Director of Libraries Andi Davis Marketing & Development Coordinator