I’m a mother, a proud immigrant and your neighbor. Eugene is my chosen home; it’s where my kids were born, where we bought our first home, where we became a family and where we’ve put down roots.

When I first arrived in Eugene, I was starting over and didn’t have much. Then I found the Eugene Public Library. It gave me access to books, cultural programs, story time with my babies, and later the materials I needed to study for my citizenship exam. It offered connection, knowledge and opportunity — all at no cost.

Libraries open doors. They provide access to information, internet, job resources and learning opportunities that help people move forward. They’re a real pathway to opportunity and upward mobility for many families.

Before my current role in private-sector human resources, I spent 10 years in public service, including seven years helping seniors and people experiencing disabilities. I saw how essential libraries are for the people I served, especially when other supports fell short.

That’s why the Eugene library levy matters to me.

This levy is a small property tax increase. For a typical homeowner, it’s about $4.50 a month — roughly $54 a year for a median-priced home. In return, it provides 23% of library funding. It keeps branches open evenings and weekends, supports digital access and funds early literacy programs for children.

If it doesn’t pass, hours and services will be reduced, and funding for new materials will disappear.

If we want Eugene to remain a place where people can build a life and feel connected, we must invest in the spaces that make that possible. I encourage a yes vote on the library levy.

Carolina González Jackson
Eugene