Staff Picks: Government

We loved seeing so many people (over 1300!) at our Celebrate the Central Library program on Saturday, November 5! If you weren’t able to participate, we hope you’ll be able to stop by the Central Library soon and enjoy the things that already make it a “unique facility where learning for all ages, family enrichment and civic interaction come alive!”

In a series of blog postings, I’d like to highlight each of the options that are currently under study. As the Director of Libraries for the Arlington Public Library, I don’t think it’s appropriate for me to have a “favorite option” at this point in time, so I’m simply going to highlight some of the pros and cons of each and then more importantly, I’m going to share the comments that you all have made in our recent survey (which you can respond to until November 23, 2011—and we’ll continue to share your comments as long as they are directed at Central Library facility issues )

We’ve heard from many of you that parking is a definite concern and while we are currently proposing parking solutions in each of the options, please be aware that these scenarios may be revised over time depending on the location of the final option and on other changes that might occur in downtown Arlington in the future. But rest assured that we’ve “heard” your concerns regarding adequate parking!

Option 1

Option 1 is to Renovate and Add to the Existing Central Library Building. This project would add approximately 30,000 square feet to the existing 63,000 square foot building. Our consultants arrived at a goal of 90,000 to 100,000 square feet of Central Library space by calculating the different programs of service that were rated as important by library users and stakeholders in the visioning process.

Some of the strongest “Pros” for this option are that it utilizes a building that appears to be structurally sound and was built to accommodate an additional floor. The location is central to government services, Founder’s Plaza, Levitt Pavilion and UTA. The renovation would address all MEP, Life Safety (asbestos abatement), roof, ADA and HVAC issues and would replace the elevators and possibly add an elevator. Reuse of the building is a sustainable solution that supports LEED certification. The outside of the building could actually be “refaced” in such a way that could result in a totally different look for the building since the concrete panels on the outside could be removed completely or partially.

Some of the stronger “Cons” to this option are that Central Library operations would need to be re-located during the 14-18 months that the construction would be going on. And, as all of us who have remodeled our own houses know, remodeling an existing building usually comes with some surprises and complications that can’t be predicted ahead of time (unlike building a new building). Since simply adding a third floor will not allow us to reach the goal of 90,000 to 100,000 square feet, additional ways to achieve this would need to be studied and it is possible that support services functions might need to be relocated elsewhere to ensure enough space for public service functions. In addition, the current downtown location is no longer the true “geographical center” of Arlington, so access to this building to many residents in the southern portion of the city is difficult. This renovation would result in a building with 4 floors and depending on the layout of services could possibly result in high staffing costs to ensure building security.

Your Comments

And now, some of your comments (many survey respondents directed their comments simply toward the location of the library and those are reflected here. Comments specifically regarding Option 2 and Option 3 will be included in those postings)

The Arlington Public Library is my favorite City service and is one of the most important reasons my family and I choose to continue living and working in Arlington. We are a homeschooling family, and the services provided are essential for us. We have never been in the Library when it wasn't very busy, and the programs conducted are impressive. I think we should invest more in our Libraries, and I hope that our City Council members will remember that Libraries are what bridge the education gap in a community. While I love our Police department, nothing stops a bullet better than a job and an education. The Library provides a lifetime of learning and growing for everyone and is tuition free for everyone. No other institution can say that. We simply can't exist as a community without our Library.

In all the give and take regarding a better library system in Arlington please do not over look citizens with little or no voice, our children. A small spark in a young mind could light up the whole world.

Even if the library were to be located nearer to the geographic center of Arlington it would still in no way be close to everyone. That is the purpose of the branch libraries. With its historic roots in downtown, that is where the main library belongs. Those of us who live in the central city have lost our grocery stores, shopping areas and many other amenities that have followed the development outward. We chose to stay and remain loyal to downtown for many years while it has tried to find its footing. Now it is time for the city and the library to remain loyal to us. Further, a downtown library will serve to draw other residents to the area and further support the new businesses now moving in.

I would hate to see the locatation change at all---it is in a perfect central location for UTA students, local high school students and the public. As is with all buildings, sometime it costs more to remodel and upgrade than it does to start from scratch but in the case of this building remodeling to me is something important to consider. The library is surely considered one of Arlington's historical land marks. I am all for preserving anything of historical value whenever possible.

The central library looks old, out of date and is not very easily accessible.

I think it is vital that the Central Library remain near downtown. 1) The downtown revitalization project seems to be gaining traction and an improved library in the district can only help that. 2) If all development moves to the south, I am concerned that we will see significant economic zoning take place that will undercut the values and vitality of the northern sector. This has taken place in Irving (Valley Ranch & Las Colinas versus an impoverished rest of the city) and we should make sure Arlington doesn't follow suit. I favor a renovation/expansion of the current site because it will cost less. This option might result in a need for a new Central Library in another 15-20 years but information technology is changing so fast, I don't think we can predict what the needs will be then anyway. Spending 30-50% more now will not change the technology revolution and it is more important to have money in the future to follow technology rather than to continue to pay for a building. I support the recent technology/service perspective changes at APL.

Keeping the library in the current location will enhance our downtown area that is already starting to improve and attract people. It would be great to have a centralized location for families and students to come together for food, study and activities. There aren't a lot of options for the kids of N. Arlington to get together to work on projects or obtain research for school. Moving the central library south will leave the NE location (which is small with limited table space) as the only location for 2 JH schools and 1 high school. The proposed project will make learning and studying fun and desirable

I use the main library all the time and cannot believe we are thinking of spending tens of millions of dollars to demolish it. If you are intent on changing it, then renovating and expanding the existing building/building site is the way to go. (I believe there should have been an option in the survey for leaving things as they are now and making no changes. That would have been my first choice!) Thanks for requesting input.

Keep the current library where it is an update it as needed (new elevators, more efficient lighting, etc). Add any new meeting rooms or other spaces in a separate building either on the site or a nearby site. For example, build a new additional building across the street or catty-corner across the street if those properties can be bought. There is no reason why all of the new spatial functions being sought have to be in the same building. People can walk across the street to community meeting rooms, computer center, etc ... or an underground passageway can be built to link the two buildings. There is also space on the east side of the municipal office building that could be used to build new facilities, but the old building should be kept in any case (even though it is very ugly and not very adaptable) . It is wasteful and unconscionable to tear down such a substantial building that is relatively young. No 're-skinning' of the existing library as this would be a waste of funds that could be put to better use fixing the roof, the elevators, and building any new auxillary facitilities. Any new building(s) should be built in a style that will not become dated in a few short years. This was the mistake made with the building we have now. It was built in a trendy architectural style w/o regard to change/adaptability over time. Let's not make that mistake over again. Any new buildings should be stately, dignified and attractive w/o trendiness and be adaptable to different uses over time.

I feel that the focus of the library has been lost, it's gone from access to literature to free computer/internet access for the less affluent. The city doesn't need a new building just to provide internet access. While I think access to information on the internet is important, it shouldn't be the primary focus of the library. I would like to see more of the funds put towards books. I also don't understand why so many books (I'm guessing 1/4 of all the books), were removed over the past year. Why is it preferable to have empty shelves rather than books? Regarding the building itself, while the architecture may be visually dated (although very well done for it's type and the style is coming back in vogue), the building itself appears to be very well built. Yes, the roof needs attention and the restrooms could use an update but that would be a lot less expensive than a new building. My opinion is that a new building would only be a feel good boost for the civic leaders so they can boast how up-to-date Arlington is, but it isn't necessary for the citizens. Regarding relocation of the library, the satellite branches are very well located, giving the entire city easy access to a library. Save the money that would be spent on a new building and renovate instead, then buy new books! Thank you for this opportunity to state my opinion

I love the location of the current library, having the main library in the center of the downtown revitalization are is a big plus. I would strongly object to it being relocated. Renovation and addition may be a little more costly in construction costs but having to purchase new land would add an additional cost.

Now that Arlington has teamed up with Mansfield Public Library, I don't really see how moving the Central Library south of I-20 would be really beneficial. It would just be more inconvenient for residents that live in North Arlington. I would like to see the Central Library stay centrally located and convenient for all residents.

I think the current location of the central library is WONDERFUL. It is right in downtown, and walking distance from UTA and other schools, as well as many apartments and homes . In the year I have lived here in Arlington I have thoroughly enjoyed my experiences with the library, including the building and location itself, the selection, and the staff. It would be very exciting to see any additions or improvements, but please do not move the library! I think it adds culture and community to the downtown area, which is always great.

The location would be better to keep as it is. If, based on the assessment, there is cause to believe a leak or failure of internal systems can close the library anyway, it would be more advantageous to take the current building down and rebuild.

There are library branch locations to serve the entire city. The central library should stay where it is, centrally located in Arlington. Even through our location is north, we frequently visit Central. We went there last night for study time. We would not been able to do that, if you move Central to South Arlington.

The library should stay in it's current facility. It can be renovated and updated. It is a central part of downtown and will leave an empty eye sore for the area. It's the closest library for North Arlington residents.

Everything has been moved away from "downtown Arlington". I worked at the original "white house" library in Meadowbrook Park and the second building across from Watts Department Store, both under Miss Lee, Head Librarian. I would prefer to maintain some history and leave the Central Library "downtown" where it belongs. I would think it would also be a benefit to be close to UTA. Just thankful we have not only a Central Library but all the branch libraries as well, such a benefit to the communities.

MORE PARKING!!!

I don't understand the need to add so much parking - why almost 200 spaces. I go to the library frequently and have never seen a lack of parking. Seems as though this is a way to make money to offer parking for the games. There is already plenty of that. Let's spend the money on fewer parking spaces and more library services.

Downtown Arlington is becoming the "go to" place for social events - with the Levitt Pavilion and many new restaurants. I think having a new, attractive, and modern library in the current location will add to downtown Arlington's continued renewal.

Make sure there is enough parking. Arlington has no mass transit so you need a multi level parking lot.

The library parking lot is too small and the parking spaces are hard to get in and out of. There is too much traffic cutting through from the city buildings on each side, and city trucks/cars use the paralel spaces on the street. I don't like the idea of a parking garage tho.

I like the current location of the current location. It is right in the middle of downtown and has high visibility. It is also in a very historical location and adds to the city's personality.

I really like the idea of keeping a "downtown" Arlington. Our city has grown so very much.. I remember when the Downtown Library was new.....it is a special place. Please keep the site and downtown thriving with Art and Concerts.

I love the existing library - I have been going since I was a child, and I look forward to someday taking my children there. Having it in the old downtown is nice for families who also visit the Levitt Pavilion and other growing businesses in that area. I think the library is an important pillar in the downtown area that keeps it vibrant, and a renovation would encourages improvement of the surrounding area. Having also worked at the Central library, I understand the need for improvements, but I think the existing building should stay.

I love the current location of the Central Library and think that if a new site is determined to be needed, it should stay as close to downtown as possible. With the branch libraries sprinkled throughout the city, it seems logical to keep the Central Library in the downtown area. Thank you for providing all of us with a wonderful library system. The residents of this city are very fortunate!!

my wife and i have lived here 3 years i believe we are blessed with a wonderful library and if we improve it we will help make our city better

The library of the 21st century should be both an information center in the full technological sense as well as a teaching and central gathering point. The availability of book content and research materials should be highly distributed and available within an extraordinarily short period of time. A massive parking structure could be eliminated by spreading the social and group research needs across the whole library system. The new para-dyne is rapid direct access to information from anywhere in the city. This implies a reworking of the fundamental architectural approach towards a better network solution across the whole system.

I think that it is very important to leave the library in Downtown Arlington. It makes sense that families will continue to come to the library and then go to a nearby restaurant to eat. I've gone to events at the library such as Art exhibitions and children's plays and it was fun to be able to walk to a nearby restaurant after. As a City employee, I know that I probably stop by the library at least once a week because it is so convenient to my work. Please don't move!

Libraries ARE important and something does need to be done about ours. It sounds like current problems have been ignored for a long time. Why not prioritize items and start working instead of talking. Two items cannot wait. 1. Fix/replace the roof now or in a short time there will be ZERO options remaining. 2. Secure the plumbing system. The new PEX plumbing system is ideal for retrofiting old buildings. After 1 and 2 are complete other necessary items and needed expansion can be completed at leisure Please do not forget the many cost effective on line services a library can provide

Whether it is expanded, or a new one is built, it should kept at its present locaction. This is the central part of Arlington, and every one knows the area. It is to get to where everyone can park, and enjoy walking around the old part of Arlington, and one can still get water from the downtown well.

Get the community and youth involved in redesigning and making decisions about the space. A perfect opportunity for civic engagement.

Adequate parking should be a consideration whereever it is located. That's the main reason I prefer to move from the current location.

Please continue to develop Downtown Arlington & serve residents in this area

Choosing between option 1 o2 both are the same square feet/parking spaces at significant cost fifference. so option 1 seems better. Suggest to have other architectural firms draw up 3 options also to compare design/sq. footage/cost with whatever option is chosen from the 3 options by Providence Associates

Option 1 for design, aesthetics & price is the best option. I suggest moving the ( omitted ) to the north by Main (detached from Library structure)

I like the idea of building up downtown Arlington and not moving businesses and services out. If you have to clean up the asbestos anyway before we can sell, you might as well stay there. Where else in the downtown area could you build without having to tear something down anyway?

Though I primarily use Lake Arlington or the Southwest library, I am generally opposed to abandoning a structurally sound building. Revamping the old site seems the most fiscally responsible option, and it takes no longer than the other options.

Only lived in Arlington for a few years but have used the library extensively although not all the available options. We absolutely love it and the remodel on our local one. I cannot comment of the changed proposed but am in favor of most of those listed on this survey.

I think that having a Central Library in downtown Arlington adds to the Urban "feel" and will help facilitate citizens who might not otherwise visit the area, visit the area. I have lived in the vicinity of three major cities and all of them have a cenral library (Houston, Dallas, Orlando)

Based on the number of people I see in my local library (SW Arlington) I think that it would be more beneficial for each of the branch libraries to have upgrades made to them rather than expand the downtown library. I'd even suggest that the downtown library be minimized and that more resources be given to the branch libraries. Since Arl. doesn't have public transporation, there isn't any benefit to having all of the resources in one place. Give each of the branch libraries a share of the main library resources. Patrons can then go to the specific library that houses what they need and more money will be used for the neighborhood libraries.

I believe that using the existing structure would be the most appropriate use of my tax/bond dollars. Too often, Arlington has made the choice to turn it's back on our history in favor of the more modern. After reading through all of the information, I believe it would be a needless waist of funds to tear down the current building or to abandon it all together and purchase more land.

I would be more interested in using whatever funds are available to develop a strong inter-library program for books that are hard to find/not available. Orlando, Florida has a library system that will deliver any book to your doorstep- which would be awesome- but I can't even get relatively easy to find books without a long hold time or sometime at all. I would like to see less high-tech gadgets that will be outdated the minute they are installed and more emphasis on providing what a true library is meant to provide- access to books. I am a twenty nine year old female who appreciates technology, but I take my 1 and 3 year old boys to the library to appreciate books, to learn to sit quietly without having a screen in front of their faces. This generation will be the death of books and reading as we know it if we do not stand strong for the written word now. I think learning play areas are great, but please don't fill the children's section with screens. I've been a teacher in general and special education classrooms and taught children of all ages to read- if you use technology to teach them to read- they do not become readers of books. They become dependent on talking characters, letter naming video games, flashing screens and dinging sounds to motivate them to read- and books provide none of that. Books are an adventure in themselves that this generation won't discover unless parents have access to books and teach them to be adventures. The schools won't do it. Trust me.  I want to be proud of our library system and the support it bring to parents and children alike.

A library is synonimous with a downtown image. It should stay. And this time calls for a repurposing of an old building.

I am for the improvement for any event. So, I am for option #1

Whatever option you end up choosing, I think you need to build a first class facility. Build something classic, not trendy. You don't want it to look dated in 10 years. Something grand like the New York Public Library. Arlington is a first class city and deserves the best. Don't cut corners because whatever you build Arlington will have to use for generations. And one of the most important things that was left out of the current library is a parking garage. Parking downtown is scarce and it is only going to get worse as time goes by so the library needs to build the biggest parking garge they can afford so that there will be plenty of parking for the future. The downtown library should be THE cultural showplace for downtown. Should be big enough for art exhibits, concerts, performances. It should have an impressive permanent art collection. It should be a facilty that when people walk in they say "Wow"!!!!!!!!!! Thank you for asking for our ideas. I appreciate it.

Please keep the library where it's currently located

very improtant to keep downtown! No. 1 issue to me after recognitiion of need for better Central Library. Will help keep Arlingto from donut effect of economic disenfranchisement. Prefer renovation for financial reasons.

I love coming to the library and bringing my children. In a world that is App and i-pad focused actual books are a dying concept. I think dollars should be invested on programs that promote community and offer a tranquil place to go and explore books. We don't need a larger facility, just a remodel with a focus on atmosphere and lighting. Invest dollars in social media, and advertising programs and community events that encourage reading. By the way, thanks to books on CD from the Arlington Public Libraries my business travel has been a pleasure!!

putting the new central library any where but downtown would undermind the city's efforts to revitalize the downtown area. Moving to the people is not what you want. We need to clean up downtown (and other parts of north arlington) so that people will want to live there again.

I do not want the library to move. I live close to the current library and I go there at least 3 to 4 times a week picking up or dropping off books. It is convient and centrally located. I like the new design and I like that it is not to big. I can go and find what I need without having too much of a hassle.

Renovate...Central is a beautiful library. I've only been in the E. Arlington library on New York a few times since the renovations.I don't like it nearly as well as the old.

Now is a bad time for huge expences, the economy is bad and our streest are getting terrible. Our neighbirhood looks like a ghetto.

I myself live within a mile or two of the library. The bulding is still attactive and functional( Though I morn the loss of the old downtown buildings) I feel the old building can be remodeled. Any funds saved perhaps could be used to upgrade some branch libraries. Woodland West is terrible

No one I know uses the Central Library. All of our business is conducted at the branch libraries. When I visit the Central Library occasionally, I see mostly students doing research. Could we not partner with the UTA Library to take care of the needs of the older student researchers and focus on the other users in the central area? Although I am aware that important resources are and could be located there and that there could be important tax advantages to a better Central Library, I would prefer to see the least possible spent on the Central Library. I believe we should focus on the branch libraries

In these economic times when public expenditures are being looked at carefully and cuts to important programs are a daily fact of life it is appalling to me that a perfectly good structure well used and loved by the neighborhood would even be considered to be abandoned. People are attempting to focus on recycling products, buying local, wasting less. Why would anyone choose the most expensive option of building a new library on a new site, leaving a perfectly good building abandoned in a neighborhood that is seeing some positive growth patterns. Just what we need, an abandoned formerly useful building where a once active neighborhood community center stood. How about acknowledging the heavy use and popularity of this location and combining that with some common sense regarding the current economic situation of our country and choosing the least expensive option (1) remodel - that keeps the library in the neighborhood that's supported it for years. I am VERY opposed to moving the location where this neighborhoods school kids on foot can no longer use it. I am VERY opposed to abandoning a useful structure and spending additional millions (and you WILL run over-budget) on a new facility elsewhere. Lets address the times we are living in and reflect a common sense approach to a successful neighborhood facility. Keep the library at it's current popular location and if you must spend millions of tax payer dollars on this project: remodel, reuse, save money.

Please arrange for a drive through or drive up book return.

Staying in Central Arlington is important for the continuing efforts at downtown renewal. Moving the library away from UTA and downtown Arlington is not the right message.

The central library is a primary resource for students and families. The possiblities need to be considered in positive light, despite the costs.

We need more ebooks! In order to be a successful library system, we will have to keep up with technology. Nearly every ebook I wish to read has at least 6-10 hold requests ahead of mine. Some are in the dozens. We must build this library and rebudget in other areas.

I feel that Arlington should have a central libray in our downtown. Many people can walk to the current location. Even tho the students at UTA have a great library. Arlington's library is a short walk for the answer to that unique question

With the recent popularity of e-reading devices, I'm surprised that the Arlington Library System has so very few titles available. In the future I would love to see many more additions become available. B. Upgrading/building a new Central Library in these tough economic times? No, I think the money would be better spent on obtaining more books, CD's, DVD's and E-Book titles. C. Private donations to help keep the library funded is all well and good, but isn't it about time that the large corporations (those big businesses based in Arlington) made more contributions? They all claim to help give back to the community, but it seems as though very little attention is given to the libraries. Time for these big corporations to ante up and TRULY give back to the community, and help make the Arlington Library System top notch, not just regionally, but nationally. D. My home library is the Northeast branch, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Please don't change that. It feels good to walk into the library after a long, hard day at work and see friendly faces, many of which recognize me as a regular patron and offer a hearty greeting and great service, not to mention sharing info on good books, CD's or DVD's.

the old site of Central Library has it's historical meaning, if ok I really like it to stay at where it's. maybe expand will be difficult due to location. however, I really like where it be, and the building

I feel that it is important for the Main library to keep a downtown presence especially as so much revitalization and renovation is going on in the area. The two newest branches (South East and South West) and the new partnership with the Mansfield Public Library serve the south sectors of the city and alleviate the need for the Central library to be moved to the "true geographic center" of Arlington.

Let's start the upgrade—as soon as possible!

The central library needs to remain in "Downtown Arlington." The new emphasis on drawing businesses into downtown would be better served with a downtown or central library.

While I understand that there are issues with the age and functionality of the current building, I believe this is a project that should be kept to as minimal a cost as possible, unless funds for Options 2 or 3 are privately raised, rather than coming from City funds.

When our daughter was younger, we visited the branch library on a regular basis for storytime and to check out books. Now as a junior high student we visit the library only occasional. The branch library meets our needs. With the internet, research can be done online. We use the library now to mainly check out videos and a book every once in a while. In today's economy, it seems wasteful to tear down the old library when expanding the current central library is possible. Also with the objective to revitalize downtown Arlington, moving the central library away seems counter-productive

Too many buildings are being razed and then new ones built. The present building should preserved and expanded. A parking garage could be provided along with the main building expansion. Starting over would be too costly. In addition, the present location is perfect. It gives at least some semblance of having a downtown.

Even though it is not in the middle of the geographic center of Arlington, that would mean that Downtown Arlington is also not in the center so who cares. Going to the Central Library gives us an excuse to go downtown when we normally wouldn't.

There is no good reason to spend an additional $9-12 million on a new facility when the one we have is structurally sound. While a new building would be nice, we need to balance what we'd like with what we can afford. This applies to cities and government agencies just like it does/should to individuals.

I feel that the Central Library must stay in downtown Arlington. It is in dire need of updating or complete reconstruction, but hopefully at its current location. Over the years, I have been to several of the branches which are wonderful. The Central Library is outdated in its design (those open stairs induce induce vertigo and I am a healthy 39 year old). I think if it were brighter and more modern I would certainly want to spend more time there. Most recently I have reserved books online and used the self-service check out, which is great when I know what I want and pressed for time. I think the library could be the crown jewel for downtown Arlington. Recent revitalization of downtown has given me hope that it's possible for the Central Library to be a place that everyone wants to utilize.

The present site would allow a true partnership with UTA and enrich the synergy that is growing there.

Current library has lots of wasted space plus its exterior is forbidding and very unwelcoming. It looks like a darn prison! Would like to see more attractive space and better lay-out of books and other resources. I volunteer at AISD's school and Hispanic children and theri families seem to have no knowledge of central library. Need materials in foreign languages to attract adults and have them bring their children. Suburbs have nicer, newer and more welcoming buildings. Arlington's looks like an urban renewal mistake of the 1960's.

Is there a way to combine the municipal library services with that of the public school system? Can the 2 systems be combined to make a better system at lower cost for both entities? Can the current library site downtown be used for a train station? The city should make the library a model of energy efficiency.

I would prefer to renovate the current building if it is feasable, however it that is not possible, I think that building a new facility would be OK as long as it was still in the general location.

Renovate/remodel the current Central Library which is already a good, sturdy building and in a good location now along with City Hall and UTA complexes, except its poor bathroom plumbing can be improved. You may want real, non slippage tiles on floors. Outdoors are green, airy with trees- good for folks' mental/spiritual health to view plus slow-going traffic there is, a taste of small town America but is modern already. The building materials can last another century to later it become a landmark. Hire an architecture firm to beautify the exteriors like low red clay roofs above, improve the energy saving windows, etc. The window frames are sturdy, will last long life. Spare a room for computer lab for retired folks to learn or play. If you agree, set up a fun classroom about things geography/ or math which children are lacking in schools. Those improvements dont cost much as projected, save money for other services the city will be glad with savngs. Please dont love more sea of cements, love trees. Maybe a small coffee shop added in.

Design it so that it will look good for perpituity.

there are plenty of branches, no need to build a new central library.

I think the support and expansion of the neighborhood facilities is a better investment.

I love having the "central" library in downtown. It is accessible to all who need it. That is what "central" means..it is in the center of town. I feel it could be renovated. It is a "landmark" to our youth & young adults, it is the library they know. KEEP OUT CENTRAL LIBRARY CENTRAL. Thanks for listening to me.

We need to preserve the current structure. There is no reason to tear down a structurally sound structure. This is the most environmentally friendly and sustainable approach. The city needs to take the "LEED" and set a good example for the community in resisting the urge to tear down functional buildings.

Since Arlington has many satellite library locations, downtown Arlington would be perfect for the Central Library as we continue to build up downtown. I do not know the true geographic center of Arlington.

I love the old library! I understand it needs to be larger and more parking provided. Please do not move it out of downtown! There are plenty of branches for people in the outer areas.

Please place Children's and Teen areas on the same level (though seperated) so siblings can stay close to each other

I am a probation officer with Tarrant County and I hope that the libraries continue to offer a lot of programs "reading" story telling", etc. for the poor in Arlington. There is such a desperate need as there are too many children having children and the children who are the parents, do not have a clue how to teach these kids to read, be interested in schools, etc. I direct every one of my probationers to the library as a free place to take their kids and spend time with them; most are unaware what the libraries have to offer, and once they discover it, they are thrilled. In order to not have another group of uneducated, uninvolved in school kids, the library should be introduced very early in school. I loved the library growing up, and I treasure it now. Thanks for all the good works.

I love the vision that has been planned out for the Central Library. I prefer the renovation because it is half the cost of the other 2 options. This would possibly free up money for expanding the vision some of the other libraries in Arlington. Unfortunately, our city leaders do not seem to want any kind of public transportation, but there are many Arlington residents who do not have the transportation to visit the Central Library for some of the services envisioned.

All of the options seem a little extravagant considering the issues facing the current budget deficit. Sounds like the downtown homeless population will have a really nice place to hang out.

i am not sure what the cost difference would be, but i think it is better to just update the current facility. there are branch libraries that are so convenient all around the city, i think this one should just stay! thanks for considering my opinion.

I like the Library right where it is. It needs some updated computer facilities, to provide a more relaxed. and quiet space, but otherwise, I like the library.

The Central library is the one that I visit the least. The location and parking is very inconvenient. "Downtown" Arlington is nothing but the police station, bars, bail bonds companies, and used car lots. The library itself is very nice. I am not sure why it needs a renovation. Seems like a waste of money to me.

I think the size and current location of the Central Library is the appeal. Although to me the building could do with an update, the most important things would be rearranging the parking lot flow and spaces, adding a drive through drop-off box, getting more or a faster elevator, to be able get around to ALL of the floors. Couldn't hurt to expand your title list. Seems that most things are hit and miss between Arlington branches.

I strongly feel that the Central Library should remain in the downtown business area. There it is part of the downtown renovations and is accessible by UTA, and community services such as Mission Arlington and Arlington Night Shelter.

Arlington Public Library System is an asset to our community. Please ensure that we continue providing the services no matter what the circumstances are.

The Central Library provides more than just books. It's location is important besides City Hall and the Tower.

Downtown Arlington has begun to thrive again. I would love to see the central library move closer to the Abrams/Cooper area.

Good Jobs so far but with all of the new technology around us, The central Library could add few of them such as computer voice action for books, CD, DVDs search and location.

User "friendly" - easy access and parking.

I hope that the the expansion of the Central library will not be at the cost of digitizing the library stocks... I have had the pleasure of borrowing books from the Arlington Public Library on my Kindle and find it to be an excellent experience. I hope that the Arlington Library System will expand its collection of Kindle books as well as other forms of digital media.

think that the present location is just fine . My family has been using the Library for over 40 years. Our childern our grandchrilden and now our great grandchrilden are using it.

I could live with this. It could even turn out to be for the best if it gives us the best possible facility in the best possible site. My main concern in moving to another site is that it could be moved too far away & no longer be in "downtown". I & my family strongly desire to keep it downtown, & we like the current site just fine. Thank you - for keeping us informed and for gathering our input. We love our Central Library!

No way do I endorse the taking of citizens' homes or businesses to build another facility. There are no vacant properties available centrally, therefore the above would be required. I believe that the city of Arlington should disregard new construction altogether. Use funds for hiring additional librarians and pay raises

I like the library as it is - would not like to see it moved "south". This is true "center" of Arlington. If the population "south" feel underserved, the consider expanding or adding satellite locations.

I can see the value for each option. I like the idea of re-using the building but I am concerned about the limitations of the site

While moving Central Library makes sense to true center, it will leave a "void" for families near downtown. Perhaps a branch should be placed here if it is moved?

Should be located with easy accessibility to working class families. They may not be the largest user group, but more important to the kids who do use it.

Downtown Centray Library is vital to the downtown area in general. It's important for it to remain downtown so that the "revitalization of downtown continues".

Great library. Hope it stays in downtown Arlington.

add a food area - coffee & sandwich shop or something special

Strong desire for the Central Library of the the city to remain on existing spot.

When it was built, it was just the right size, but Arlington has grown and so must the library. It is in the best location for the students at the schools & UTA. With the budget crunch, I want to see you try & pass it to us taxpayers.

The only reason I would not support option 2 is the likelihood that a new building would be even uglier & more poorly thought out for the future as the existing library. Even the literature for Option 2 says "serve needs for 25 years". 25 years is not an acceptable time frame for a building lifespan/usefulness. If we can't build for at least 50 years, don't bother. Let's muddle along with what ishere. It is wasteful to tear down this structure to build a new building that will not meet needs for longer (50-100 years). KEEP THE LIBRARY DOWNTOWN!

Don't overlook traditional library services. Library services oriented to children help build a foundation of readers who take advantage of library resources over a lifetime.

The library is named for my dad. I would love to see it remain in the heart of the city.

Don't lose the character & ambiance of the current library. the space and areas of privacy are great. The colorful and spectrum of library patrons is great. Don't lose the integrity of the library.

The Central Library should be in downtown. I think the current facility is okay. It just needs expansion & modernization.

with the expansion of downtown, the new stadium, UTA expanding, & the pavilion, I see no reason to move the library to another position

The parking facility is an absolute required element. The current configuration is not adequate. If you are going to invest so much money, make it a state of the art facility that serves all the citizens with the leading edge technology

The George W. Hawkes Library was named for my grandfather. It is in a terrific place due to all of the kids & adults who live in this area. for the sake of histroy, please keep the library here

The current location is excellent. It seves people who don't have regular accress to computers & is convenient to get to. A different location wouldn't be as good.

I think it's very improtant to have more parking in the center of town. I'm not so sure that the library needs expansion, however, How about just a parking garage on the library parking lot & not adding another story? What are the justification to the library itself expanding?

do not move our library.

DownTown Arlingto is certainly coming I think it is vital to keep the Central Library on its current location. With renovation should expand outdoor park areas.

While the current Central Library may not be located in the "true" geographic location on Arlington I believe its location downtown near the city offices and UT Arlington more important. Renovating the current library seems more cost effective in the long run rather than having to build a new library on the current site or building a new library on another parcel of land that would have to be purchased. Arlington has been diligent about building branch libraries as the city has expanded and I believe the branches are well prepared to meet the needs of patrons who do not live or work near the Central location.

I think we should continue to develop the downtown area for the citizens of Arlington as well as for the University community. We need to build on each others' strengths and cpaitalize on the growth and energy already emerging in the dowtown/College Park area.

we have lived in downtown area for 36 years and love to be honored as viable neighbors. we have utilized the library for years and believe that coming to the center of town is a drawing card for the entire city.

The central library, and it's close proximity to city hall, is a huge asset to the downtown. It is a great research facility as well as location that is needed in the central core. Moving the location would be a detriment to our downtown core.

The Central Library needs to be in Downtown Arlington. With the increased emphasis on the downtown area, maintaining a downtown library is very important. A park garage at the library could also be used to ease the parking issue with the new attractions in the area. Central Arlington needs to continue to grow.

Online news will only get you so far. Take a look at these books (and movies) culled from the headlines and distilled for your knowledge.

Osama Bin Laden

Just because Bin Laden is gone, it doesn't mean Al Qaeda is. Outlines a two-year plan for restoring America's reputation and defeating Al Qaeda without military violence by exposing the organization's purposes, reducing operations that cause civilian deaths, and relying on counterintelligence sources.

A Delta Force Commander's Account of the early hunt for the world's most wanted man.

Traces the Bin Laden family's rise to power and privilege, describes the diverse lifestyles of the generation to which Osama bin Laden belongs, and discusses their attempts to recover from the effects of September 11.

Royal Marriage

Fast and Furious-ness

Pope John Paul