To the Editor:

In a letter to the editor last week, Ottilie Millson asked "What to do?" regarding lack of access to the internet and the opportunities it allows. I was dismayed by her question because the window of opportunity is present in her own community.  It is at the library.

Whereas public libraries were originally established to make books more readily available to the general public, the library is no longer just a collection of books. The offered resources have expanded tremendously.

By walking into the library, you have free access to a computer that is connected to the internet and a printer.  Libraries do charge for printouts to subsidize the cost of ink and paper.  For 10 cents a page, you can print out forms, airline tickets, and coupons.

Using the library's computers, you can establish an email, write and send job resumes, fill out rebates, research medical conditions, and renew a car registration. The possibilities are astounding.

The library has WiFi for those with handheld devices such as smartphones or tablets.  Update your apps, play games, and go on Facebook without using up your data plan.

If you don't know how to use these resources, the staff is willing to help you.  If intensive help is needed, you may sign up for a one-on-one lesson.  Ms. Millson was correct in saying that access to the internet is becoming a necessity; but there is no reason to spend large amounts of money.  Simply find a ride to the library.

Of course it would be nice to have these resources in your home, but the staff promises to make your library visit as comfortable as possible.  Be sure to call (518) 872-1246 for the hours.   Because of a limited budget, we are open only 28 hours a week.

You can help us expand our hours.  Let the town board know you consider the library an integral part of your community.  Let's have a conversation about its worth versus its cost.  I think you will be pleasantly surprised.  Computers and internet access are just a small part of what a library has to offer.

Judy Petrosillo

Berne Public Library manager