Freedom is never free. It is earned through constant diligence to its protection. Those who oppose freedom often mask it in opposition to equality. They argue in coded language that there can be no rights without responsibility...as they define it. They organize working class people to stifle their own freedom on the pretext that they too may be rich someday so we mustn't make choices that benefit the undeserving 'all'.

I am sitting here in the Main Branch of the Iredell County, North Carolina public library reading the Statesville Record & Landmark. On my left is a man listening to the Rush Limbaugh show with headphones that poorly restrain the voice of a man who would rather this building not exist. Later the Republican Women will meet here in a covered dish affair to celebrate, one may assume, the choice by those in their party to burn the book budget of this public library.The County recently approved a budget that slashed, among other things, the funding of new book purchases. Of course, the library will keep the carpets dirty before keeping the latest works of literary achievement from their citizens. Library workers are literary freedom fighters in today's political climate. While they can't keep the barbarians at the gate, in fact they have the same access as the rest of us, they can keep vigilant in allowing ideas in despite the barbarian's determination to keep them out.

This building, this public treasure, is Statesville's lighthouse. It shines on all and welcomes all, even those determined to dim the light. I have written before about the irony that the solution to our crime problem, literacy, literally sits across from the County Jail. Rather than simply curse the darkness I will light a candle and offer an idea.

I wrote the County Jailer last month to volunteer a literary course for the incarcerated. The silence was deafening as no response was received. The other day I noticed members of their community, I dare not call them convicts since some may be awaiting trial, working outside the jail. They wore McBurglar type outfits apparently in an attempt to destroy whatever dignity they walked in with. (Ironically Ronald McDonald was downstairs recently, I don't know if he brought McBurglar with him)

I believe that our community will benefit if those who demonstrate good behavior be detailed to clean the public library. It will be a reward and an opportunity. Those chosen will be permitted to cross the street in their civilian clothes unchained but not unescorted. Before beginning their work each night they will be permitted one hour to choose a book and read it. After their reading hour, they will rotate in and out of work and participate in a reading program, Those needing extra help will find it and those needing the opportunity to write or discuss a favorite book will find it. Each month the group will select a book, take it back with them, and be encouraged to discuss it.

I suggest as a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate grace, the Republican Women who are meeting here in the library can provide refreshments. After all if the burning of the book budget is a regretable byproduct of difficult economic times this may help bridge the gap somewhat. After all we want our public facilities to be clean, our community members in trouble to learn their way out, and our wonderful lighthouse to brightly illuminate our community.