I have not written about our Great Neck Library in a long time. The so-called Main Branch is located north of the tracks in the most exclusive area of Great Neck.
Many of the houses there are mansions. And the residents like things in superfluity.
Those other branches of the library are all on the other side of the tracks.
Lakeville is a small hole in the wall with lots of books and a few computers, which are almost always in use.
Station has a lovely location and is beautiful. Only the parking is difficult. It is most centrally located. The entrance is not disability accessible as required by law.
Parkville is the stepchild of the system. It is in a public school building made of wood and though well patronized is not at all like the beautiful Main Branch, or Station branch.
It is also in the most populated section of the school district.
The $30 million dollar plan for main was defeated. The spendthrifts of the board are now aiming at a lower figure.
They plan to move a staircase to the lower level approximately three feet, probably at a cost of $100,000, and to make a central corridor from a new entrance, another $100,000.
Then there is the scenic opening to the woods and the pond (as if there were no other windows) for about a half million dollars.
The relocation of the various units of the library can be accomplished without the massive expenditure for beautification. The bathrooms need upgrading and routine cleaning, which has apparently been lacking.
There are loads of empty shelves and now that books are out there should be some provision for borrowing of tablets.
Look to the future and not to building an edifice for the past.
Norman R.
Great Neck
