This desperate action translates into fewer hours for our children to spend time in a public library, working on homework and getting help. Across the city fewer children and older citizens will have the benefit of the vast body of knowledge contained in each of these wonderful public institutions. In Washington, libraries help bridge the "digital divide" for many Black residents who lack Internet access. Thus, the reduction in library hours can only mean weakening a critical informational and educational link.

Now turn the page to how city leaders treat the issue of closing Klingle Road. The District's transportation department is waging an aggressive and expensive campaign to close a vital public road that connects neighborhoods divided by Rock Creek Park's huge expanse. Officials want to spend significant amounts of money to restrict vehicular access and turn Klingle into a bike trail. Yes, a bike trail. This is in addition to vast amounts already wasted studying the road and its environment.

The Klingle Road dispute has been pushed to the forefront by what appears to be the backroom dealings of a few influential people who live near the road in Woodley Park. They want to see Klingle closed in a transparent attempt to protect their property values. Perhaps hidden in the controversy is that some along the park's west side wish to turn their area into an exclusive community, where folks from other parts of Washington are just not welcome.

Recently, six City Council members, led by Council President Linda Cropp and Councilwoman Carol Schwartz, have introduced legislation designed to restore Klingle to its historic use as a cross-park connector. We support this effort and believe it is beyond time to repair and reopen Klingle for its intended use - as a public thoroughfare open to all.

Spending money to close Klingle Road and not spending enough for public libraries illustrate poor choices. Access to Washington's roads and libraries deserves greater support from city officials. They were elected to protect transportation and education, two fundamental engines of economic prosperity and social equality. They must focus dwindling resources on basic services, like keeping precious libraries and streets open to all, instead of wasting money on the costly political whims of a privileged few.