Op-Ed: Save the Bridgeton Free Public Library
Photo courtesy of Michelle Azpiri.
Op-Ed
BY MICHELLE AZPIRI | Bridgeton Free Public Library
Your Library. Your Community. Your Voice.
The Bridgeton City Council has introduced an ordinance that would place a binding referendum on the November 2026 ballot asking voters whether the Bridgeton Free Public Library should be dissolved effective January 1, 2027.
This decision would have a significant impact on our community. The Bridgeton Free Public Library is much more than a place to borrow books—it is a vital community resource that serves
residents every day.
Why the Bridgeton Free Public Library Matters
*Education & Literacy
The library provides free access to books, digital resources, research databases, tutoring support,
and lifelong learning opportunities for children, teens, and adults.
*Technology Access
Many residents rely on the library for internet access, computer use, job searches, online
applications, resume assistance, and digital literacy.
*Heating & Cooling Center
The library serves as a safe refuge during extreme weather conditions, providing residents with a
warm place during the winter and a cool place during the summer. For many community
members, this service is essential.
*Youth Development & Violence Prevention
The library actively supports programs designed to engage teens in positive activities,
mentorship opportunities, educational enrichment, and violence prevention initiatives. These
programs provide safe spaces, constructive outlets, and resources that help young people build
brighter futures.
*Support for Families
From story times and summer reading programs to educational workshops and family events, the
library strengthens families and encourages learning at every age.
*Services for Seniors
The library provides social engagement opportunities, technology assistance, educational
programs, and access to information that improves quality of life for older adults.
*Community Gathering Place
The library is one of the few free public spaces where everyone is welcome regardless of age,
income, or background.
We Need Your Voice
We are asking residents, students, parents, educators, business owners, community leaders, and
library supporters to tell us why the Bridgeton Free Public Library matters.
Please email your comments, stories, testimonials, and letters of support to the Director:
MichelleAz@bridgetonlibrary.org
Tell us:
? Why the library is important to you.
? How you or your family have benefited from library services.
? Why Bridgeton should maintain its own public library.
? What programs or resources you value most.
? How the library has impacted education, employment, youth development, or quality of
life.
Sign the Petition
Stop by the library to help show community support by signing the petition to preserve the
Bridgeton Free Public Library. Every signature helps demonstrate that residents value this
important community institution.
Vote NO on November 3, 2026
A vote NO means:
?Keep the Bridgeton Free Public Library open
?Preserve local library programs and services
?Maintain access to technology and educational resources
?Continue providing a heating and cooling center for residents
?Support youth engagement and violence prevention initiatives
?Invest in Bridgeton’s future generations
The Bridgeton Free Public Library has served our community for generations. Together, we can
ensure it continues serving future generations.
Protect Our Library. Share Your Story. Sign the Petition. Vote NO on November 3, 2026.
Email your support today to the Director: MichelleAz@bridgetonlibrary.org
A stronger Bridgeton needs a stronger library.
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