Tax season is upon us. Completing tax returns can elicit many emotions, and for the Scarborough Public Library, it is a time that prompts gratitude. We are grateful for the wonderful community that we serve and for the resources that make it all possible. On any given day, an average of 382 community members come through our doors to participate in programs that encourage diverse goals ranging from early childhood literacy to disaster preparedness. According to the American Library Association, 40 percent of library visitors are job seekers using library resources to aid in their job search. We offer job-training software, Internet access, and print resources to help in the search. Patrons here in Scarborough have been able to borrow tens of thousands of materials from other Maine libraries through our inter-library loan system. E-book resources have been greatly expanded in the past year with the launch of our Cloud library, as well as additions to the statewide e-book download system. We are grateful to be the go-to resource for so many Scarborough residents. If you are entitled to a state tax refund and you are grateful for this community resource, we invite you to check the Maine Public Library Fund on your Maine Income Tax Form 1040ME Schedule CP to make a donation. The money and earnings will be used to help public libraries around the state provide services identified as priorities. Thank you.

Emily Read, vice president

Scarborough Public Library Board of Trustees