Having another new central library built in our lifetime is extremely unlikely (it just won�t happen - so I will take your pledge). No need to worry about that part of history repeating itself soon. Even if the decision would have been made to build the library on a different site, there still would have been substantial downtime for the majority of the collection (moving 2.4 million items takes some time). When our community libraries are renovated, part of their collection needs to be moved and is unable for a period of time. When you take a collection down it allows the staff to perform a collection review (evaluate the condition of the collection which may include removing books, adding books, and repair/preserve books).
The old central library was not a �perfectly functional� library, it had many problems including an outdated book retrieval system (mechanical parts/tubes were no longer made), serious fire code violations, outdated heating/cooling system, asbestos, water leakage, inadequate children�s library, 85 % of the books were in underground storage (not available to the public), and many other issues.
How many police officers wouldn't have to be cut if that money was spent to move to a different site? The number of police officers would not have changed. Please remember that capital or bonding dollars can not be directly spent on operating expenses - they are two different pots of money. The voters approved (by 67% margin) bonding money for a new central library, so the dollars could not be used to fund the police department (or any other department - only a library related building).
The new central library was in public discussion for well over 10 years. There were several public meetings, citizen task forces, and committees formed to discuss the various issues around the new central library (including site location). I did initially support other locations, but there were not enough votes to support a different site.
I do look forward to the opening of the new central library (with the entire collection being available) in May 2006.
The new, 5-story library will replace the outdated Central Library that stood at 300 Nicollet Mall from 1961 to 2002.
The New Central Library will feature:
- More books, computers, seating
- Majority of books on open shelves
- The Children's Library - a place for learning and literacy, imagination and discovery
- Teen Central - designed by teens, for teens
- Technology training room
- New immigrant center
- Community resources - meeting rooms, auditorium
- A caf� and bookstore
- Library Hall - a grand civic space
- Energy-efficient, green building principles
- Gallery to showcase historical collections, rare books, and artifacts
- Underground parking
- and much, much more
The New Central Library will be home to an outstanding 2.4 million-item collection - the largest of any public library in Minnesota and the fourth largest in the nation. A landmark building designed by Cesar Pelli, the new library will be a dynamic, resource-rich, downtown destination - an essential gathering place that inspires learning, invites interaction, and improves access to information and knowledge for everyone.
Thank you,
Rod Krueger Minneapolis Library Board 12th Ward - Nokomis East
www.rodkrueger.org
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Let us pledge to ourselves that we will never, never, never build another new public library if it means we have to put any books in storage for years. I am so tired of being frustrated by books put on ice so we could build on the same spot I could kick the seeds out of a pickle!
WizardMarks, Central
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From: "Dan" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
I second that. How much will it cost to replace a perfectly functional (and relatively modern) library? How many police officers wouldn't have to be cut if that money was spent more wisely?
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