If only 395 residents used the Port Washington Public Library in a year, why keep it open?

What a frightening, tragic prospect it would be if the library closed, or services were reduced, because of a defeated budget and underfunding.

Of the 32,000 plus in Port, only 395 of the estimated 10,000 eligible to vote showed enough interest to register an opinion on the budget for this vital community institution. For those who care, the library is adequately funded for next year, 240 yes, 155 no.

One of the long time poll watchers, indicating the rows of seats in the Landmark auditorium, said, tongue in cheek; "That's where the mass of people can sit while waiting in line for their turn to vote." Where were the people?

Another volunteer watcher related an incident: A young father, small child in tow, seeing the "Vote Here" signs at the Landmark, asked what the voting was for. Ultimately he voted, we hope affirmatively, especially for the tyke's sake.

Apathy? The polls were open 14 hours, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Ruth M. and Leo J. Stoecker