The upcoming library vote on April 12 gives us an opportunity to recognize what has now become one of our town's outstanding institutions. As a resident for over 45 years, I have seen the library grow from a small one-room type home to the proud structure it is today. In the intervening years, it has served me, my children and my grandchildren in varying educational capacities. The research on many, many school reports and projects started at this library branch. I, too, have been a regular user all these years, confidently seeking and finding answers to my own questions; the term "second home" could be used as an appropriate label for me.

None of these achievements could have been accomplished without the efforts of a trained, dedicated group of librarians, all of whom were always available to help and assist in any way possible. My grandchildren, who are now well into their senior high school days, still come in, on their out-of-town visits to say hello to a few of the librarians in the children's section who helped them in their early exposure to the world of books and reading. I have the greatest respect and admiration for the entire library staff for all they have done for me and my entire family over the years.

The Port library has currently become a beacon of enlightenment for our entire community, and let's hope its light never diminishes. A yes vote on the budget is definitely in order.

Samuel Schiff