Proposition #5: Library Improvements
Totally renovate the existing 32,815 square foot Central Library on Austin
Avenue and develop new West Waco Branch Library.$12,000,000
Cost to average homeowner: $1.29 / mo.
Convention Center Fire Parks Police Libraries Ranger Museum |
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How many years have we talked about this; about improving our libraries – among the most critical foundation blocks of any city’s culture and education. We are long overdue in giving a floor-to-ceiling renovation to the Central Library built on Austin Avenue in 1961. We can wait for someone else to do it, or Waco can choose to get it done. It would be a shame to turn our backs on a library system that serves 567,000 visitors each year and checks out 497,000 items. Leasing space at $70,000 a year for the R. B. Hoover Library makes even less sense as the rent is going up in 2008 to $78,000/yr. We should own a building for this, our busiest library. |
Picture it – two attractive and well-equipped libraries that do far more: more Children’s Services in learning, enrichment, exploration and discovery through books, art, technology and creative expression. Adult collections will be able to expand, and the purchase of comfortable seating, improved lighting and more windows will enhance the library experience for all ages. The cost of leased space will vanish. Ownership of a new West Waco branch library is the fiscally prudent thing to do.
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