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1. WSMom
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   I would love a small library in the junction. It could even be just a little one where we could request books online and get them at a pick up and drop-off counter. Maybe a little room for computers and a homework/reading area. No books on shelves necessarily, kind of a virtual library if that's all we can afford. Any thoughts?

   Posted 3 years ago #         

2. Irukandji
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   Would shoes be required?

   Posted 3 years ago #         

3. Sue
   Member Profile

   

   I would love something like that. I have my holds sent to Central since it's near my office, but I'd probably switch to a Junction one if it existed since I can walk there. I don't use the Highpoint one only because even though it's within walking distance of me (mile-wise), I can't get up the hills to get there from Fauntleroy.

   Posted 3 years ago #         

4. WSMom
   Member Profile

   

   dirty feet on grownups is rather gross

   how about at least socks if you're over 30

   actually, sweaty sticky socks after being in shoes all day is just as bad if not worse

   I don't know, maybe we could ask for a foot washing station and everyone be barefoot:)

   unless you have toenail issues, then shoes definitely

   actually, I'm making myself cringe, let's just leave shoes on and call it good

   Posted 3 years ago #         

5. JoB
   Member Profile

   no shoes no shirt no service?

   Posted 3 years ago #         

6. roundthesound
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   Seeing as how there are 3 libraries within 2 miles of the junction I can't see how this would be worth the time or money.

   Posted 3 years ago #         

7. beachdrivegirl
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   roundthesound you took the words out of my mouth. especially with the shortage of funding we are facing right now.

   Posted 3 years ago #         

8. Julie
   Member Profile

   

   roundthesound & beachdrivegirl, keep in mind it would be a very long-term plan--we passed the "Libraries for All" bond issue 10 years ago and it has just now been completed. You can't base future planning on current economic conditions.

   With all the residential growth in the Junction, I think it might make sense to have at least a small branch there; for people who can't or prefer not to drive, and who couldn't walk that far, the High Point, West Seattle, Delridge, and Southwest branches are not as easy to get to as one might like, until we improve our transit options.

   I remember Delridge started as just a self-serve pick-up/drop-off location. Perhaps a Junction branch could start that way.

   My understanding is that SPL has had a long-term policy of owning its own buildings, rather than leasing storefronts as some other systems do. This gives it more control over building costs. But for the self-serve type of location, as Delridge was, I think this probably doesn't apply.

   Anyway, WSMom, do let the library administration and the city council know your wishes. It might not happen soon or at all, but "nothing ventured, nothing gained".

   Posted 3 years ago #         

9. celeste17
   Member Profile

   

   They could just do a book mobile at the WS Farmers Market to start so people can pick up and drop off books while they do their shopping. Especially since they are in the area. No extra money needed for a store front. Just gas and a parking spot needed.

   Posted 3 years ago #         

10. roundthesound
    Member Profile

    The bookmobile would be a great idea. Do they make deliveries? Someone put this giant hill between my house and the library.

    Posted 3 years ago #         

11. Gina
    Member Profile

    

    http://www.spl.org/default.asp?pageID=branch_mobile&branchID=30

    Explains who Seattle Public Library services are meant for.

    Posted 3 years ago #         

12. BookGal
    Member Profile

    I agree - a library branch would be wonderful in the Junction. I too have wondered why there isn't a branch library in the Junction, like in Ballard (which is heavily used by the Ballard community).
    One reason could be as Julie mentioned in her post - that SPL would prefer to own the building rather than lease it. And perhaps there just wasn't any buildings available when the Libraries For All Project was in the planning stages.

    Here's an idea, if SPL did lease a space... there are some building developments in the works within walking distance (two-three blocks) to the Junction. Why hasn't anyone considered or approached the developers and SPL about incorporating a small branch library in the plans? I'd think that there would be some tax breaks for the developer for providing a public service etc.

    Before I forget: Kudos to all the Seattle Public Library employees, who got to work (downtown and to the branches) during that crazy snow storm to keep the libraries open and running! I know a few people who walked over an hour just to get to work. That's dedication.

    Posted 3 years ago #         

13. JoB
    Member Profile

    A small service library would make a lot of sense in the junction.. after all.. that is the meeting point for most bus service in West Seattle and as such is the most accessible spot for those who depend upon public transport.. such as anyone with mobility issues on a limited income.. including children and the elderly...

    and i second the kudos.. and not just for what they did during the storm. we have great libraries here...

    Posted 3 years ago #         

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