Libraries, property inspection, parks, swimming pools and recreation, as well as youth and senior programs could become unaffordable luxuries without state help, according to the Detroit Free Press.

In an editorial in Monday’s paper, the Free Press says private citizens can make a difference as evidenced by residents in Romulus. The fund-raising efforts of the Friends of the Romulus Library reopened the local public library after it closed on May 1 due to a millage defeat.

“Everyone should applaud the Friends of the Romulus Library, whose fund-raising efforts reopened the local public library after it closed on May 1 due to a millage defeat,” the Free Press writes. “Their work demonstrates what engaged private citizens can do when cities fail to provide needed public services. Elsewhere in southeast Michigan, other citizens groups have also stepped up and provided money and volunteers to restore programs for seniors and others.”

The editorial also suggested a survey be sent to residents for input on what services to keep. Dearborn did this earlier, sending surveys to 2,000 residents with dozens of questions.

“In the short-term, local governments can help with multiyear budgets that set narrower priorities. Local leaders should talk to — even poll — citizens about what services they consider essential, as SEMCOG has recommended. Many municipalities in southeast Michigan — including the Grosse Pointes, Warren, Wayne, Garden City, Farmington Hills and Ferndale — have already conducted citywide surveys that ask residents to prioritize and rate municipal services.”

For the full editorial, click HERE.

The Dearborn Library this summer is once again offering a Food for Fines program, giving  patrons a $1 reduction in overdue book fines in exhange for donating a non-perishable, non-expired food item.

Patrons may donate non-perishable, non-expired food items from Aug. 1 – 12.

All Dearborn Libraries will be accepting canned or boxed food items in exchange for reductions in overdue library fines.

There is no limit on the number of items donated nor amount of fines cleared, but the donation can only be used for overdue library materials. Patrons cannot apply the donation program to pay for lost or damaged materials.

All donated food will be given to the Dearborn Firefighters for distribution to families in need through the Burn Drive program.

Check any Dearborn Public Library for further information.