Dear members of the Oak Park Public Library Board,
The Oak Park Public Library has stated that it will cancel all print daily newspaper subscriptions as of 2023, leaving only the weekly Wednesday Journal and Oak Leaves. I wish to add my voice to those requesting that this issue be addressed at the Aug. 23 meeting of the library board so that the public can hear what the board thinks of this decision and whether they are willing to reconsider it.
Over the years our library has broadened access to information with many innovations. I am very concerned that the library is reversing course here and denying access to daily news to older residents and others who do not wish to browse the news on screens. This includes anyone who enjoys the experience of turning the pages of a newspaper.
This critical moment in our nation’s history is no time to cut out this most accessible format for the news. As so many libraries are under attack and being forced to limit access to their collections, it makes no sense for the Oak Park Public Library to pro-actively deny daily news access to some of our most vulnerable community members.
I look forward to hearing what you will do about this.
Teresa Powell
Oak Park
