Ray Bradbury Believes in Libraries

I, for one, believe in both Ray Bradbury and libraries.  So this story of Bradbury championing a local library--the H.P. Wright branch of the Ventura County Public Libraries, to be precise--incites in me a flurry of delight.

“Libraries raised me,” Mr. Bradbury said. “I don’t believe in colleges and universities. I believe in libraries because most students don’t have any money. When I graduated from high school, it was during the Depression and we had no money. I couldn’t go to college, so I went to the library three days a week for 10 years.”

For the H.P. Wright branch, it's the familiar story of budget cuts, state financial strain, and fallen property tax dollars leaving enormous gaps in funding for libraries. The branch was told that it must raise $280,000, or it will close. A local Friends of the Library group has been furiously fundraising, and now, Bradbury--who turns 89 in August--has joined the effort. He participated in an H.P. Wright benefit event yesterday, featuring an author discussion and a screening of "The Wonderful Ice Cream Suit," a film that Bradbury adapted from his own short story.

If you too believe in libraries, consider backing up the Wright branch, which has served its community for more than four decades. Donations also can be sent to Save Wright Library, P.O. Box 403, Ventura, CA 93002. Checks should be made out to Save Wright Library. Those who wants to help with the campaign can call 644-9247 or e-mail [email protected].

Hat tip to Chris M. for the article link.

Comments

[cj]

amen Ray!
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