Library Leaders Demand New Facility to Serve Growing Community

During a recent city council meeting, Anita Hay, president of the Waterford Library Friends, advocated for a new library facility to accommodate the growing community's needs. Currently, the library, built in 1965, spans just 2,170 square feet and serves a population of nearly 10,000 residents, with 70% holding library cards. Hay highlighted the limitations of the existing space, which lacks dedicated areas for programs and essential amenities like a drinking fountain.

Rena Wadia Atmaja, the branch supervisor, echoed these concerns, noting the library's inability to host larger community events due to space constraints. She emphasized the importance of a larger facility to enhance programming, including summer reading activities and children's events. The current library setup restricts the ability to accommodate special guests, such as performers or educators, due to the limited space.

The council discussed potential solutions, including the possibility of utilizing adjacent city-owned land for a new library. However, budget constraints and ongoing renovations at other county libraries have delayed progress. Council members expressed their commitment to advocating for the Waterford Library's expansion, recognizing the urgent need for improved facilities to better serve the community.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued communication between the city council and county library administration to prioritize the Waterford Library's needs in future planning.