Letter to the Editor: The gilding of a library

The notion that our library is grossly inadequate — a $20 million solution being the only path forward — has been a mantra since 2018. Again, we are told that yet another substantial tax increase must pass in order to avoid imminent community degradation. The only alternative ever really on the table is a dreamy, gold-plated community showpiece that goes far beyond needed functional improvements.

Supporters are channeling Dr. Bronner the soap man, trying to make the case that a new library will be a salve for nearly all of our social ills. Ms. Danaher and others are right to speak to pertinent numbers. Facts are an appropriate starting place to keep big ideas, in a small place, tethered to earth. However, our 2020 census was 7,778 residents — far from just under 10,000, as Ms. Danaher inferred. As of 2021 5,616 island residents own free library cards. Isn’t membership a key number from which to extrapolate community need?

The industry recommended space of 0.6 to perhaps as much as 1.0 square foot per resident, is already substantially met by our current library footprint of 9,600 square feet and would be drastically exceeded by a new 15,000 square-foot space. Professional library planning recommendations for populations of 10,000 or less prescribe at least seven seats per 1,000 residents. We have about that regardless of continued COVID distancing.

I trust that most would agree that the research portal into the expanding universe of information is technology and computer stations, not space-eating shelves full of entertaining books and unnecessary collections. I see that the flock of local authors claim they can’t do proper research without a lot more public space.

Discussion about using the Life Care Center for affordable housing is a train that left the station; the Library District already owns it. Most importantly, the library website insists that the remodel of that useful building was never part of the plan, even before the egregious mistakes that led to extensive water damage during last December’s cold spell.

For grounding, look no further than the non-profit workhorses like the Food Bank and Family Resource Center that raised donations to modestly expand square footage based upon actual numbers and essential needs.

Our existing library has a relaxed atmosphere, superb service, great staff and helpful volunteers. I have been a frequent user for 15 years. I never have a parking problem nor feel crowded. The busiest times for larger urban and suburban libraries are evenings and weekends. Our library chooses to continue reduced hours — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, and shuttered on Sunday. Banker’s hours. Aren’t more hours and staff one way to expand the size of an “inadequate” library?

Vote no on this library levy. Send this grandiose plan back to the drawing board to be downsized and de-glittered — using the Life Care site with room to expand if necessary down the road — given the harsh realities of our faltering economy, declining services, ferry follies, increasing living costs and a debilitating lack of reasonable housing.

Steve Ulvi
San Juan Island

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