The recent report of dramatic increases in Lawrence Public Library usage is a reminder of what an important continuing resource the library is for our community.

Especially in tight economic times, local residents turn to the library for a variety of services. Books that inform and entertain are the library’s traditional fare, but the library now also circulates many video and audio items. In 2008, more than 1.2 million items were circulated, an increase of 12 percent over 2007. That’s more than 3,000 items a day.

In addition, the library provides research materials and computer access to those who may not have home computers or Internet access. It’s also a center of activity for the community. Hundreds of local children participate in storytelling sessions and other library activities. The library meeting rooms are among the very few city venues that are open to the public at no charge and are booked almost every night.

The mission of the Lawrence Public Library has evolved considerably in the last decade or two and is likely to continue to change. Nonetheless, it is clear the library still serves an important function for a broad spectrum of community residents.

Some local taxpayers may have found the library expansion plans that were floated a couple of years ago to be a bit grandiose, but there’s no question that library resources are stretched thin. Given the current economic situation, library officials are resigned to making the best of the space they have for the foreseeable future.

When the economic crisis eases, however, improvements and expansion of library facilities should be back among Lawrence’s top priorities.