Libraries as anchors

Over the course of the last couple of years, one of the things we've found about vibrant communities is that local officials have learned to partner with what are known as "anchor institutions" within their community.  An anchor is a vital piece of a vibrant community.  Examples can be as diverse as universities, museums and hospitals.  Communities should not however overlook the importance of the local library as a "anchor institution".  And as noted in a recent issue of "American City and County" magazine, the traditional role of public libraries as simply book despositories is being transformed in the digital age to include the place where residents find free web access and job training.