Schools and Library Position

By Erling L. Horn

I support Measure B, the Lafayette School District Improvement Bond Measure, and support the Library Committee's recommendations for the purchase of the existing library and plans for the construction of a new library.

A library committee has been studying our city library for several years. As required by our Redevelopment Agency, the City will purchase our library from the County by 2008. The existing location, together with a negotiated purchase of some adjacent property, is the primary choice of many cifizens. I support this committee's work and choice of location, which has numerous advantages. It is in close proximity to Stanley (our only middle school), Lafayette Elementary School, Chateau Lafayette and is on two bus routes. We need to take advantage of our library's central location.

The library purchase will be financed through the Redevelopment Agency through our RDA tax increment proceeds. The construction of a modern library will be financed by a combination of private donations, foundation grants, and perhaps some Redevelopment Agency bonds.

A new Lafayette Library should be well-planned to meet our present and future needs. I envision that library will include at least the following: an area for adult fiction and non-fiction books, an area for childrens' fiction and non-fiction books, a childrens' reading area, an adults'/ teens' reading room, a reference section, an historical society area, and a multi-purpose room with a small kitchen where authors can give book talks and poetry readings. Space allocation for showing the works of local artists, and, of course, an area for the most up to date computer technologies are critical items in the plan. These minimum features will meet the needs and expectations of the residents of Lafayette.