As a father of three beautiful, intelligent children, it makes me smile to know that Target cares enough about the communities where they operate to give back to the youth. In a time when municipalities are dealing with a depleting tax bases due to unemployment and home foreclosures, it seems that America’s libraries have become collateral damage of this economic war that we are battling. Across the U.S from Atlanta, GA to Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA and even New York, NY, the very institution that fosters early creativity in our youth is under attack by our municipalities. Ironically, money is frequently found to build more jails. What’s wrong with this picture?
While local governments continue to reduce the number of libraries, Target is committed to not only assist in keeping libraries across the country open, but also to enhance the structures that currently exist. “By funding programs that promote reading, Target is doing its part to build a foundation for students and give them the tools to prepare them for college, a career and life,” said congressman John Kline (R-MN). With this program alone Target should be commended for the impact that it’s making on local communities across the country. It is a bright example of how when the public sector can’t get it done, or chooses to allocate its budget inefficiently, the private sector can step in and get the job done. Don’t get me wrong – I’m not supporting privatizing all aspects of government, but in this instance Target has hit the bulls eye with local schools, teachers and parents by insuring the future of our country, and giving our children great libraries to generate the excitement for their mental makeover.”
