Renovate, expand Marion Library building

I was on the design team that worked on the design, building and decorating of the Marion Public Library. It was designed to be a part of the Marion downtown for generations. It should not be demolished.

First of all, the building was designed to add a second story. In all of the articles, I have never seen this as an option. A roof can be repaired or replaced and a vent added to a bathroom. A beautiful building does not have to be razed. If anyone would lift up a floor carpet tile, they would find a grid of electrical wiring to accommodate computers and other equipment. It looks like mesh and can be accessed to wire all electronic needs.

On the sign in front of the building, it says the Nancy A. Miller Marion Library. Nancy donated her entire inheritance to the citizens of Marion to jump-start the library campaign. It meant that much to her. What does this say about the ingratitude of the citizens of Marion now? They should be ashamed. Why has it not been discussed to add another library, possibly near Linn-Mar, as a branch and keep this library standing as a part of the Marion square? There is no rule that says a city should have only one library.

I have always admired Marion because of the commitment to restoration of beautiful Victorian homes and other buildings that have been repurposed into something unique and attractive. The library is a mere 20 years old. All considerations were made to design the building to be an attractive addition to downtown that would be modern, yet blend with the charm of the downtown district. Another story or a branch library would take care of the citizens' needs and would cost millions of dollars less than the present proposal. Please consider the other options and not raze such an exquisite building and keep it as the star it is now.

' Barbara Green was a consultant with Brown Healy Stone & Sauer Architects and worked on the Marion Library design. Comments: greenbl630@gmail.com