HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-15-23 Public Comment - P. McGown - Library Board of Trustees Meeting 11_15From:Patty McGown
To:Agenda
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Library Board of Trustees Meeting 11/15
Date:Tuesday, November 14, 2023 12:23:18 PM
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Dear Bozeman Library Board of Trustees;
Thank you for the outstanding work that you do for the library and the Bozeman community.
I have lived in Bozeman since 1987, when I arrived to take a job at MSU. Things were different then. I am not
opposed to people moving to the Gallatin Valley. I did that too. I do not believe that Bozeman needs to look like
every other town.
There is a vibrancy that the Library gives the Bozeman community that is nearly impossible to describe with words.
It must be felt. For example, when the library moved from its former locations the library staff (maybe even some of
you) organized a book train of people who moved the books person to person. Gives me goose bumps when I write
it still today. That only can happen in a place where people live who care about each other, their town and their
library.
It is smart and prudent to say “No, thank you” to building a parking garage on the Library’s parking area. Why?
Because once it’s gone, it’s gone. Or as Joni Mitchell sang “paved paradise put up a parking lot”.
One just needs to look around the Gallatin valley to see how developers and real estate agents have changed the
landscape forever. Forever.
Once it’s gone it’s gone. I have travelled the world and communities that planned growth for the people over profit
are healthier, kinder, friendlier, safer and inclusive. Neighbors know neighbors.
I implore you to “just say no, thank you” and keep the library able to continue to do what it does best, fully support
the members of the Bozeman community.
Thank you!
Patty McGown