To the editor:

Having viewed on Sunflower Channel 6, and seen in this paper, the various options for our new library, I would offer this remark: The library is a public entity and should remain so.

My preference would be to either expand – carefully and with no destruction of the existing, surrounding properties – the present location or to build on the vacant property next to the Lawrence Arts Center. (The latter has the advantage of a parking garage, under used and already built.) We also could purchase the Masonic Hall or utilize the large old historic bank behind Round Corner Drug, thereby contributing to historic preservation, while expanding the library’s space and keeping the library downtown.

Whatever the final location, I am 100 percent opposed to private developers combining their for-profit endeavors – i.e. office, retail and loft space – with our nonprofit public library. I urge the city planners, City Commission and all Lawrence citizens to stand up for our community’s integrity by saying “no” to any plan involving private interests and “yes” to spending our precious tax dollars only on our public library.

M. Roy,

Lawrence