Dear Editor, As our state legislature considers whether to restore some of the funding libraries lost in 2002, I ask that they consider this: without the TexShare databases, the people in (insert town here) will no longer be able to find detailed medical information, family history, and thousands of periodicals they’ve come to depend on through this invaluable digital library resource reference system. It’s no exaggeration to say that (our town) will be set back 10 years if this small amount of funding for TexShare is not restored. Sincerely, Librarian or Library Supporter

Dear Editor, Thank you very much for the wonderful editorial that appeared in Monday’s Statesman on school libraries and the 65% proposal. The comments addressed perfectly the problems of leaving school librarians out of any state definition of direct instruction. School librarians teach students research skills, reading, information literacy, and countless other skills that are fundamental to meeting curriculum requirements. Clearly, libraries are a vital part of the learning infrastructure, and Texas children deserve that these incredible “classrooms” be recognized as such at all levels of state and local policies. Monday’s editorial will, I hope, encourage readers and decision makers to look at the issue more closely and ensure that libraries, which are integral to a student’s learning experience, are not left out of the school equation.                                              Sincerely,                                              Librarian or Library Supporter