The Day’s editorial, “Finizio’s two-straight big tax hikes for New London too much,”(April 2), is off the mark in stating that “a 100 percent increase in the public library line item of the city budget is simply too much.” 

The library serves New London on less than half the average percent of budget other Connecticut cities and towns allocate to their libraries. Doubling the amount still leaves it below the state average. Is it good enough for New London, as The Day suggests, being substandard by half. 

A vital, active library is an essential part of a vibrant, progressive community and helps it achieve its vision for a prosperous future. A good library attracts business, improves residents’ lives, and enlivens the downtown. 

New London’s library returns more than $4 in services and programs for every $1 the city contributes. Can the Day cite another organization that gives a better return on investment? 

If you wonder what the library has to offer, check its website (PLNL.com). Better yet, visit the library.

Imagine what the library could do if it received even an average portion of the city budget. A 100 percent increase in the library line item is not too much.  

Gordon Angell

New London