Update 5/7/2023:

This petition has moved to a website I've created.  Please check it out, and take a minute to sign this updated petition:

https://www.citizensforalibrary.org/west-boise/

Thank you for your support!

-Mark Salisbury

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I've lived in West Boise over 20 years and one thing is glaringly missing - a library nearby.  You need to travel nearly 5 miles in any direction to reach a library.  Most citizens live less than 2 miles from a library, many are within 1 mile.  At a closer distance you can bike or even walk to a library.

My wife and I enjoy reading, but when you look at our children, they LOVE to read.  They put us to shame.  For us, going to pick up a book requires an unfortunate level of planning.  I believe libraries provide an especially important place for our younger citizens - our future - as well as older citizens whose schedules are no longer dominated by their children.

Libraries are about more than books.  They provide a place for citizens to learn (including new technology, like 3D printers), to be creative, to meet, to interact, to access the internet, or just to enjoy a quiet place.  Libraries are especially helpful for underprivileged members of society, people looking for a job or new to the English language.

The west side of Boise / east side of Meridian feels like an area neglected by the city leadership of both cities.  It's time for this to change.  The supply of available land in this area is not increasing.  In addition, a library that serves both cities could be supported financially by both cities, making a new library in this area a discount to both cities.  Libraries are only a small part of our city's budgets.

Whether you live in West Boise / East Meridian or not (but especially if you live in this part of town), please sign this petition - and spread the word.  We will be taking this petition to city leadership.  The time to act is now.

We've started a Facebook group too.  See https://www.facebook.com/groups/1266257710908051