Lincoln Parish is at risk of losing its library if the Oct. 9 tax renewal vote does not pass.
Dr. Augusta Clark, President of the library board, told The Gramblinite the tax is important for all parish residents.
Clark has been on the Lincoln Parish Library board for about 12 years and is currently in her second year as president of the board. She was the head of the education department at Grambling State University in 2000.
Clark said if the library closes she said it will have a big effect on her.
“If we don’t have a library, we will be the only parish in the state of Louisiana without a public library” Clark said.
In order to keep the library open, they have to renew tax every 10 years.
Clark highly encourages everyone to vote if possible.
“Don’t stay home, get out and vote! Clark said.
She has been talking to NAACP, ministers and mayors across the parish to get the word out.
The voting for the millage renewal is on Oct. 9, 2021. Early voting began September 15.
Clark said last year many people didn’t vote, so this year we need as many people as we can to vote.
“The last time a lot of people didn’t vote but this time it’s going to be a big slap in the face. This election is very important and can lead to the closing of the Lincoln Parish Library,” she said.
Many people don’t have any other options but to go to the library. Lincoln Parish Library offers children programs, teen movies days, study rooms and more.
“If it fails, a whole lot of stuff will be crumbling,” said Augusta Clark.
A lot of students still go to the library even if it was just a place for them to relax.
“It will be a loss because of all the materials and resources the library provides,” Clark said.
The library provides a place for students of all ages to study, have meetings, have performances and you can even rent it out for any event you would like, such as conferences.
“Even though there is a library on Grambling State's campus, many people still come over to use the meeting and study rooms and to participate in different programs,” Clark said. “Another thing about Lincoln parish library is that you can use books as well as online books such as eBooks.”
Clark said everyone who is able to vote on the tax should.
“Knowledge is power and the more power we get, the better we are. Go vote!” Clark said.
Dr. Augusta Clark