As I read the volley of articles and letters re. the library bond issue vote, I think that there is a misconception that those against the bond issue are against any rehabilitation of the Main Library. In fact, those advocating a “no” vote are strongly in favor of renovating the library, but in a responsible, well thought out, and cost-effective manner.
Those supporting the bond issue tout the benefits of expansion. But is additional space really needed? The (Great Neck) Library Board of Trustees has not analyzed the current space to see if it is being optimally used or how it could be reconfigured to use unutilized or underutilized areas to meet the current and future programmatic needs without adding more space. A renovation as envisioned in the Board plan A (no added space) would allow for such a reconfiguration at about half the cost of the proposed bond amount. No one has considered moving functions, especially back office functions, to the Station branch, where there is a large unused area under lease for many years into the future. Given the small amount of space to be added for a high price under the plan being voted on, is it really worth the cost?
The plan being voted on requires Main being closed for two years. What happens to the collection during this time, especially those unique aspects not present in the branches? More important, is there room in the branches to absorb the large volume of patrons currently using Main? Initially, the board spoke of finding alternative space for this two-year period. Now, the library board’s latest attitude seems to be to let the public use the branches without really assessing if there is adequate room at those sites.
The advocates for expansion tout an enlarged community room for performances and other activities. However, they do not seem to realize that they promote the same space for conflicting purposes. Some want a room with stadium-type seating for performances. That same room could not then be used for other types of activities, which require movable seats and a level floor. What these advocates fail to realize is that this is a library, not a community center. While community functions are fine in the library, this is not its main purpose.
The library has gotten along well with rooms of the current size serving multiple purposes, and there are other facilities on the Great Neck peninsula that can provide the functions desired, including the schools (which have both auditorium seating and flat, open spaces) and the Park District.
My conclusion is that a simple renovation will modernize the library in situ, not endangering or encroaching upon Udall’s Pond. A renovated library can meet accessibility requirements, provide modern conveniences and energy and other efficiencies, and if done correctly meet all programmatic needs for the foreseeable future.
Voting “no” on the bond issue will force the library board to reconsider simple renovation, Plan A, which could be done at much lower cost without closing the library and accomplish what the library truly needs in an environmentally friendly way.
Robert Mendelson
Great Neck
