I wholeheartedly support the Libraries of Stevens County (LOSC) Levy Lid Lift and encourage you to vote “yes.” Over 20,000 unique patrons used the LOSC in 2025. Free. I don’t have kids or grandkids, but it matters to me that there are free opportunities for every kid- do in my community to have a better chance of success. Librarians help with homework and research. Tutoring leads to kindergarten readiness, improved test scores, and the path to better jobs and economic success. Adults get assistance with literacy programs, job-skills workshops, printer access, online services, job applications, legal help, telehealth, and online learning platforms. Library staff help seniors with digital devices and technology issues. Books, storytelling, gardening, arts and crafts, and STEM are all for free. Libraries are gathering places hosting book clubs, author talks, WSU Master Gardener, and other community workshops. Thousands of people in Stevens County lack reliable and affordable internet. In 2025, 24,000 unique devices connected to free, 24-hour Wi-Fi. Lakeside Library opened on a Sunday during the Spokane Complex fire for computer/Wi-Fi access, masks, charging devices, water, snacks, a distraction for the kids, air conditioning, and a place to connect. Libraries save you real money; Stevens County residents saved over $6 million last year by checking out books, e-books, audible books, movies, or equipment. So many reasons to vote “yes.”