Library expansion a necessity in a growing community like Palm Beach County.

Imagine a new center of community activity where anyone can avail themselves of an array of services, from computer classes to lectures from experts in different fields, to movies, health and wellness seminars and if all else fails, simply to curl up with a good book. The well being of a community can be determined by the health of its libraries. Fortunately for Palm Beach County, its library system is robust and growing — 17 branches with more to come.

If there were ever a government service that warrants taxpayer support, it's this one. The county currently spends $84 million annually, and library officials are seeking another $10 million in their proposed 2024-2025 budget. The request is justified. The library's 0.5491 millage rate hasn't gone up since 2011. Expansion, however, is still affordable, thanks to rising property values that bring the county increased tax revenues.

Library expansion warranted: County pouring money into libraries: Plans for new main library would triple current size

Earlier this month, Doug Crane, the county's library director, outlined plans to build a new main library that would be nearly triple the size of the 53-year-old facility on Summit Boulevard. The new library is expected to cost $22 million and if county commissioners approve the department's budget, it will open in 2030.

The new main library is part of a systemwide update and expansion. The Hagen Ranch Road and Okeechobee branches are scheduled for renovation, and a new Canyon Branch west of Boynton Beach off Lyons Road is expected to open later this year. A Hypoluxo branch is in the concept stage and locations are on the drawing board for Mangonia Park and the western developments of Avenir and Lakehaven.

County libraries offer more than 4,000 activities, classes and events for their 4.6 million yearly visitors. As the county population grows, it's appropriate that the popular library system does so, as well.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Palm Beach County needs a thriving library system