Moving the Kelso Library
You might have seen a recent TDN article that pointed out that we have sold two locations considered as possible sites for a new library. The implication was that the council was no longer pursuing a new library building. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Other library sites have been considered by the council. We just don’t discuss these kinds of potential property acquisitions in open session. State law allows executive session discussion of topics like this because the price of property can be impacted by these decisions. We want to make sure that we can get the best deal for you, the citizens.
I think the councilmembers are generally supportive of siting a new library, though we might have different ideas on how much we’d be willing to spend. Personally, I favor finding an existing structure and remodeling it for library use. My take is that the rules we have to play under in government make construction more expensive than purchasing something that fits our needs.
At first, I questioned the need for a new library, especially when we have one in Longview. Why not just join forces with them? I’d much prefer to see a consolidated county-wide library district. However, on the other hand, I think I’d rather err on the side of overspending in the areas of literacy and education, given some of the statistics of our community.
For instance, 10.3% of Kelso residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared with a statewide figure of nearly 28%. While bachelor’s degrees are certainly not a litmus test for a livable community, I think that statistic points out the need for us to expose our children to more eductional opportunities (like libraries!)
What do you think? Let us know…
I agree with you…the libraries should be combined into the Longview site and open to all Cowlitz County residents. I live in Rose Valley and would like to be able to get books without paying more money.
I would also like to see our Senior centers combined and moved to the old Market Place site on Ocean Beach Hwy.
Cool…the first comment that agrees with me
I’ve been in favor of opening up the library usage to more people. I’d love to see everybody, for instance, with a Kelso mailing address, or even in the entire county, have access to the library.
It’s always pointed out to me that a fairness issue exists, because only the residents in the city limits pay for the library. The answer is a library district, similar to what was approved in Lexington a few years ago. Lexington residents are able to use the Longview library, and pay a little extra in their property taxes for the right.
Maybe you could work with other residents in the Valley to get a similar proposal on the ballot for your area?? It’s going to take a grass-roots effort like that in order to succeed.
As for the senior centers, that’s an interesting idea for a location. I hadn’t thought about that spot. Unfortunately, I suspect that the rent there is probably cost prohibitive. Great idea, though, should it ever be affordable.
I am on the board of the library. We feel, we can serve the citizens better by building a larger up to date library with maybe a senior center in it. It would have all the up to date whistles and bells electronically, rooms for teaching the seniors, childrens plays and book telling times, teens room and so on. What do you people think? thanks for the support.