One of the oldest ideals of our American society, even predating the Revolutionary War, is the town commons' concept.
The town common was a space, not owned by any individual, where the townspeople could gather and participate in municipal activities or share a space. Most often, these were small parks in the center of town. People would gather for concerts, dances, open markets, town discussions, debates (trust me - much different from our modern debates), and many other types of social gatherings. It was the primary way that a diverse town could feel united, that everyone had a voice and a right to participate.
As time went on, we lost many of the activities that bound us together. I remember my parents participating in bowling leagues, bridge clubs, and square dancing. My Dad joined Civic Clubs, such as the Lions, who helped do good works for the sight-impaired. The movie theatres were large and packed, television programs were watched by millions (All at the same time!) As it is now, politics was divisive, but nowhere near as cutthroat, where we seem to be bordering on civil war.
Social media, which was supposed to bind us, has often led to more division, as people create alternate realities based on their own preferences.
Despite this assault, the commons still exist. And that can be seen most in our community's public libraries.
Our public libraries are a great access point to the world of books, which, being a devoted bookaholic, I love. But it is so much more than that. There are DVDs if you love movies. There are computers where one can research and play games - computer access does not have to be a matter of wealth. There are magazines galore.
Much more than this, though, are the dozens of activities that the library sponsors - book clubs, Story Time for children, arts and crafts projects, gaming groups, writer's groups, instructional classes and lectures. One of my favorites is Free Comic Book Day, where hundreds turn out for a whole range of activities, many in costume.
Everything that the town common achieved, the public library is keeping alive. And how important is that in this world that pulls us all apart? There is no division between race or class, rich or poor, religion or politics. All are welcome. All are invited to join together. And how many area activities can make that claim?
Even in times of adversity, such as the current Pandemic, the public library does everything it can to stay vital and, as things slowly open up, to offer a safe space to join together and use its resources.
When it is time to vote for funds for the public library, such as is the case with the Waycross Ware County Public Library where a SPLOST proposal is on the ballot, please consider how important it is to hold onto this oldest and most cherished value, that of the Town Commons.
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