To the editor:

In his article “Tale of 2 libraries: Lawrence vs. Topeka,” reporter Scott Rothschild rightly pointed out the disparity in funding between the two libraries. Topeka definitely has the advantage over Lawrence, even though the effectiveness of serving the entire county of Shawnee from a single location in Topeka can be questioned.

Although it’s true that Lawrence residents have access to the university libraries, a disparity exists there, too. In Topeka, residents age 18 and older can secure a guest borrower’s card from Washburn University’s Mabee Library and access its materials at no direct cost. Compare that to Lawrence, where a KU resident borrower’s card is available to Kansas residents, but costs $10 per year.

As a cardholder at both the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library and the Lawrence Public Library, I know from experience that directors Leamon and Flanders and their staffs deliver excellent service. If the Lawrence Public Library were better funded it would only improve its usefulness to the community. Lawrence residents could then have access to more and better meeting room space, improved collections, and more and better technology at the public library.

Eric Hansen,

Lawrence