Politics & Government
Community Split Over Proposed Gladwyne Library Renovations
The main issue discussed was the potential installation of a $1.4 million elevator.
The installation of an elevator at the was at the center of discussion during Tuesday night's community meeting at the
The elevator, the largest of the $1.4 million recommended renovations to the library, was proposed to increase accessibility.
"If this project is approved we will finally have six libraries that would be accessible to everyone," Charlie Bloom, head of the Lower Merion Township Library Foundation said. "Libraries are crucial to the well-being of this township."
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While no one opposed the renovation on the basis of accessibility, some residents were concerned with the cost, the aesthetic appearance of an elevator, parking and density issues as well as changes to a historic building.
If approved, the library would be expanded toward Righters Mill Road allow for the elevator's installation.
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Some residents asked if the size, shape and floor plan of the elevator could be minimized to allow for accessibility but maintain the buildings historic apperance.
Others wondered why anything had to be done immediately.
"We legally do not have to update," one resident said. "Just because its been in our plans for awhile doesn't mean we have to do anything."
The plan to update the library has been in the works since 2004 when a study was conducted on all six libraries in the township. This month recommended renovations to the Ardmore and Gladwyne libraries were proposed and tabled by the township's board of commissioners pending further discussion.
"This is getting pushed very hard because we can save money if we bid the two projects together but a careful study needs to be done," the same resident said. "There are going to be parking and density issues and intense traffic problems, it's just foolish."
Resident Karen Aydt was most concerned about the future of the building. Because the library is not owned by the township Aydt fears that if the building no longer housed a library it could be taken over by the township. She proposed raising all the funds without the help of the township.
But Lower Merion Commissioner Dan Bernheim said he didn't think that should be a concern.
"I don't see that as a consideration or a legal possibility," he said. "There is a lot of moving parts to this but we would need to have a legal document in place."
Currently involved parties are working to raise $250,000 for the project and the rest of the $1.4 needed would come from the township, Chris Steckler, director of libraries said.
Resident Pam Clark said her decision to support the renovation is based on her future.
"I want to be able to use the library until I'm planted or scattered somewhere," she said. "I'm worried that maybe one day I won't be able to get up those steps, I've seen people struggle to get up them."