As I read the article in the Recorder’s March 4 edition on the Special Town Meeting, I was horrified! I cannot believe that refurbishing the old library would even be a consideration.
Not only is the physical structure very old, very small, very unsuited to the needs of the present day library needs, but please, look at the outside.
All those cement stairs to climb, some crumbling, some crooked, and every one a daunting trial to any prospective patron. For all the many years I lived in Turners, I loaded up my book bag and climbed those stairs at least twice a week, because going to the library is always part of my life.
However, as the years passed and I grew older, climbing those stairs became too great a task. The “handicapped entrance” is even worse — one’s driver has to leave by backing out into traffic, while I make my way to the ramp, walk the ramp, find myself in some odd part of the building. The stacks, somewhere it seemed.
Once there were new plans proposed; one with a ground floor entrance. It seems it’s time again to revisit these plans, design some new and better ones for the 21st century — and a new one with a ground floor entrance. No more horrible cement stairs. An entrance where everyone can feel welcome.
As I am now a Greenfield resident, I am eagerly awaiting the day when our new library opens and I can stroll easily through the front, street level door. I wish the same for my friends in Turners Falls. Stay strong. Don’t give up.
Estelle Cade
Greenfield