Lawrence city commissioners are taking the right action by seeking new plans for the former Carnegie Library building at Ninth and Vermont.

Commissioners directed the city staff this week to begin seeking new proposals from groups that want to use the building. Given their previous experiences with the building, the commissioners probably will give close attention to financial planning for any proposed use.

The idea of a literacy center dedicated to poet-author Langston Hughes wasn’t a bad option for the Carnegie building, but after more than a year, its planners were unable to come up with the financing to get the project off the ground, let alone sustain it over time. The city wants the former library to be put to good use but not become a financial burden for taxpayers.

The Lawrence Arts Center made wonderful use of the Carnegie building for many years, drawing a broad cross-section of local residents and out-of-town visitors to its doors. Insuring that this historical building continues to serve a vital public mission should be a key consideration for commissioners.

Several proposals for the building already have been floated informally. It is hoped city commissioners will have a number of plans to choose from within the 90-day timeframe they have set. The Carnegie Library has a rich history in Lawrence and deserves a stellar plan for the future.