Years ago, in an editorial supporting the Manhasset Public Library's budget, we quoted a jingle that used to be sung on the radio:

"Oh the place for you and the place for me

Is your local public library.

They have books and things

That they lend for free.

It's the latest, it's the greatest, it's the library."

It still holds. The average family will pay $242 in library taxes next year. No matter how many members are in a family, they can all borrow books, whether the latest best sellers or classics. They can borrow audiotapes and videotapes for recreation or education. Now they can have access to the Internet. Then there are the many programs available at no cost. We have written about and attended meetings about and been concerned about the library's need to expand and that is certainly the case, but, even in its present cramped quarters, it's far and away the best bargain in town. We hope everyone will support the library by voting to approve the budget on April 18.