I wanted to say something about this idea that we need a big central library to be a monument or a symbol of the city’s greatness. I can’t think of a worse reason to build something. And, frankly, it’s just a weird argument at this particular time in the city’s history while sewage regularly spills where it’s not supposed to be, potholes go unfixed and a major financial crisis remains unresolved.
Don’t get me wrong. I’d love to have a huge, amazing central library. I’ve got a library card. We just can’t afford it.
Marnette Federis reported on this issue Sept. 15.
Library experts also say the desire for downtown facilities taps into the sense of civic pride and the desire to have a symbol for a city.
If we’re going to this route, I think we should insist that the central library feature a giant statue of the City Council in session.