The mayor of Chattanooga, Tennessee, is talking about the funding needed to renovate the downtown library. Private funding works well, and taxes could help if the people support it. The library system needs more money as is without any remodeling plans. Three branches, including the one closest to me, close one more day of week due to limited funds.

Naturally, I like the idea of a great looking downtown library and more of revived branch libraries, but I hope this can be accomplished through private funds. Even special purpose taxes tend to remain after their stated goal is completed. I wonder what a fund-drive would raise or if their is any grant money out there for this. I also think the horse should be before the cart in that a great book collection should precede a great library building.

Tags: books, library, Chattanooga, taxes