GuelphToday received the following letter to the editor from reader Tiana Westrik, who thinks the money being used for the new library could be used elsewhere:
It has been in constant debate for many years; should Guelph build a new main library. I have come to the decision that we don’t need a new library. One of the main reasons for my opinion is that the cost of building this library is ridiculous! The city has budgeted $62 million towards the creation of this new building. I don’t think that we should be spending that much money on a new building, when the one we have is executing its purpose just fine.
Now let’s think about the future. I agree with Mr. Mitchell’s notion, even though I have never met the man. We don’t know what life will be like in the next coming years. Especially in today’s day and age of technology. Students and the youth are more attracted to finding resources and entertainment on the internet rather than in the pages of books. Now don’t get me wrong, I love books and reading, but I might just be one of the minority. I don’t think Guelph should put all this time and money into a project that eventually might not even be worth it in the end.
Instead of pouring all our money into one project I think that Guelph should be putting money towards building more small branches. Majority of people are more concerned about time management and convenience. They would rather go to the closest library, then go all the way into downtown just to browse the shelves.
Guelph should save that money and put it towards more current and relative projects that could be useful in the future.
Tiana Westrik
Guelph, Ontario
