To the editor:

There is no doubt that the “governing power” in the community has made up its mind about the public library issue. We will have to accept a brand-new building. In my opinion, it will be forced upon us regardless of common sense.

However, what is wrong with a small addition to the East Lawrence Recreation Center with installation of computer terminals and computers for the library catalog as well as a small reading room?

The building that housed the alternative high school is a publicly owned building and could be used for yet another branch. It sits next to another public park and recreation facility.

Do not add more computers downtown. The present ones are used daily by patrons to play video games and look at porn sites; just ask any of the staff and security staff.

The existing building could have the main floor extended to the west and, given that the present building hasn’t had a good cleaning in months, one has to wonder how a new building would be maintained.

I have observed and used the facility all summer, and the windows are dirty, the “no smoking within 50 feet” is not enforced and, quite frankly, the furniture needs to be shampooed as well as the carpeted areas.

Mr. Mayor and City Commission: Be honest with us. Do you really plan to keep the existing library or have you bowed to the Chamber of Commerce and the construction industry in Lawrence?

David Holroyd,

Lawrence