You have questions? We have answers!
- What is a library?
- At least two things are needed for a library: a collection of information resources, and, just as important, a place to keep the collection. The two must both be adequate for the needs of the community.
- Who "owns" the library?
- In our case, there are two entities that "own" the library: Capital Area District Library(CADL) owns the information materials, but their charter does not include responsibility for library buildings. The city of Williamston owns the current library building.
- Why is a new library building needed?
- Any visitor to the current library will probably not ask this question. The existing building was originally an auto dealership's repair facility. It is in such poor condition, the city is reluctant to put money into maintenance at all. A few years ago, the roof leaked with every rain, the roof trusses had to be shored up, and the electric service barely provides needed amperage. Shelving space is so limited, books are displayed on the floor. CADL would like to provide half again as many materials as we now have.
- The city plans to move the library into the "Community Center," won't that be adequate?
- The city originally planned to move the library during February 2006. Since then, several more planned moving dates have come and gone. Putting the library in the old high school is a "new use" that must meet all current requirements as if it were a brand new building. If the library does move to the Community Center, several inadequacies will remain: a small space that is difficult for anyone (much less a handicapped person) to access. The move to the Community Center may provide another location for the library, but it will not meet the future needs of the community.
- Who uses the library?
- CADL has done studies that determined that most users of the Williamston branch library are in Williamstown and Wheatfield Townships and the city of Williamston. But anyone served by CADL may also use the Williamston library.
- But who uses the library?
- While many people prefer to purchase their reading materials themselves, there are countless others that find borrowing preferable. The latter includes parents who encourage their children to read, and as a result are constantly searching for new materials for their kids. It includes seniors with fixed incomes who entertain themselves with the latest bestsellers. It includes people who enjoy audio books while they travel. It includes people who understand that there is a lot of information available in libraries that is not readily available anywhere else.
- Is the expense of a new library building justified by the number of users?
- The simple answer is "of course!" A library is necessary to obtain and maintain a satisfactory level of knowledge for many of us. We all spent years in school as children and young adults. Many of us have had the benefit of costly educations. But learning is a lifelong process that doesn't end with a diploma of any level. On that basis, a library is worthwhile at almost any price.
WCLF worked several years to -
- Determine what size building is needed for a new library
- Find a location suitable for a new library
- Assure the selected location is capable of developing the library we need
Selected location
WCLF has purchased a parcel on two
lots about two blocks west of Putnam on Grand River Avenue. The
parcel has mature trees and a wonderful setting on the south bank of
the Red Cedar River with views of Brookshire Golf course.
Plans for the building site
As of early 2007, there are no
specific plans for the site. WCLF did obtain an architect's
study of the site to determine if it would be sufficient to
construct a library meeting our needs. The site will easily
accomodate a building of 10,000 sf.
It has the potential to expand the building to
15,000 sf also.