Editorials

Do you think there would be much opposition if the Roman Catholic order, the Benedictines, announced they intended to build a monastery a few blocks from Ground Zero in New York? I doubt it. Do you know, according to German historian William Shirer, that for two years Adolph Hitler, no introduction needed, attended classes at the Benedictine Monastery in Lambach, Austria, where he sang in the choir, took singing lessons, and according to his own account in “Mein Kampf,” intoxicated himself with the solemn splendor of church festivals and dreamed one day of taking Holy orders?

Far removed from the traditional book depositories of the past, the modern public library has taken on a new identity; it has evolved, becoming a highly sought-after destination in the community for information brokering on a global scale. As a community, we covet and protect our interest in these organizations; they represent our shared passions and inspire us to better ourselves, beget and disseminate knowledge, and most importantly, become more informed about our society-at-large.

Editor’s note: The following exceeds the BCR’s 500-word limit for Letters to the Editor, therefore, the BCR will offer the same opportunity to someone with an opposing view. Contact BCR Editor Terri Simon before submitting your rebuttal at 815-875-4461, ext. 229.