To the editor:

As a strong supporter for the library and the proposed ballot question to renovate its 38-year-old building, I am saddened by those who say they too support the library but that they’re going to vote no and wait for some future proposal that would include branches or be “more moderate.” If you support the library, you should put an “X” by “yes” when voting this fall.

Waiting for what is “perfect” for you is an exercise guaranteed to disappoint. Each person (especially here in Lawrence) defines “perfect” differently. The reason the library is one of the most utilized public services is that so many different people find so many different uses that meet so many different and changing needs.

It may make sense to have branches at some point but before that can happen, the main building needs to be renovated and expanded to provide the central services and facilities needed to run a satellite operation. Also, are we going to provide the additional annual operating funds necessary to staff branches? Have you considered how politically impossible it would be to only open one branch? Would it be on the west side, the east, the south? That should be a fun City Commission meeting.

In truth, a library supporter supports the current proposal because it is the best and most realistic option that will come along for many years to make our beloved library, if not perfect, at least a whole lot better.