Though city officials planned to monitor the operation for up to five years, its success has spurred some to suggest more neighborhood libraries be considered in a possible bond election to address infrastructure needs. We've filled a void. If a branch was to open on the northside, you'd see the same thing. A lot of people won't use the library until it's in their backyard. We're visible and convenient.
Branches appear to be the most realistic option for expanding library services.
It was the second defeat for a library bond issue in five years. During the debate, some opponents backed building branches as the better option. Library boosters countered that branches, instead of relieving pressure on the main facility, would add to it. They argued branches lure new patrons who inevitably seek more and greater information at their bigger, better-stocked central library. Librarians at the main facility are surprised their circulation figures have dipped from a year ago.