My thoughts concerning the location and design of the proposed new Rockport Public Library:

1)      First, I still believe the best location for a new library is the former Rockport Elementary School site.   It provides easy access to all Rockport residents, has ample parking, plus handicapped parking for the aging population, as well as for parents with young children, provides room for expansion over decades, allows for a one floor design with provision for all programming needs, and presents the least expensive option re: site preparation and building costs. 

 I also believe a small secondary “library” housing the marine collection and historical books/journals related to Rockport could be housed at the current site and serviced by volunteers, thus satisfying both sides in this debate.  This would meet the Bok deed requirements and the few who favor a smaller library at that location could donate toward its construction.

2)   That said, of the two designs under consideration, I definitely prefer the one with the roof garden.   The library will require expansion within five to 10 years and it is senseless to then have to remove a roof to allow for a third floor. With the outdoor space easily framed in, expansion will be much easier and cheaper. In fact, I don’t understand why that space could not be enclosed now and simply divided into four meeting rooms for various community groups.   No librarian would be necessary other than for periodic checks.   The exterior could be glass, providing harbor views yet allowing for year-round use.

I have major concerns about the proposed reconstruction of the intersection.  Given drop-off and parking/backing out plus patrons walking across that section with three roads feeding into Limerock, traffic will be bottle-necked and it will still be dangerous.  

3) In my opinion, it is tragic that a small group of inner village residents have dominance over such a major town investment/project.  They appear to have co-opted the Select Board and some town employees despite the space/program requirements determined by the Library Committee and the location determined by the Steering Committee.  

Ames Curtis lives in Rockport