I encourage you to participate in the Feb. 9 elections and cast a yes vote for the King County Library’s Proposition 1. This levy, the first since 2002, is dedicated to the preservation of current levels of services and resources. It offsets increasing costs due to service growth and inflation. Library usage continues to surge with more than 20 million items checked out in 2008 — a 43 percent increase over the eight previous years. The levy is not for new capital facilities.

The library is a cultural hub of Mercer Island, serving us all. Please give it your continued support.

Bryan Cairns