Let me get this straight: The county is unable to run the libraries on available funds, but a private company can do it and make a profit, too? The county can't fire the whole library staff and hire some back at lower salaries, but a private company can? So we're considering privatization?

I'm sure these companies are great for corporation libraries, but public libraries are a fundamental part of a community's heart. To privatize them is to undermine community at a time when we especially need to have it strengthened.

The Board of Supervisors offers only two alternatives — privatization or nothing. Perhaps a more viable solution is not even mentioned: Making temporary cuts until finances improve and allow normal operation again.

Privatization is a cop-out. Management is easy when there's plenty of money, but what counts in hard times is ingenuity.

I'd like to remind our county officials that they are here to serve and strengthen this community. They need to do a lot better than handing our library system over to a private company.

Patricia Black

Nevada City