kyounge1956
Thinks s/he gets paid by the post
- Joined
- Sep 11, 2008
- Messages
- 2,171
In the interest of fairness, I feel I should point out that the library construction was paid for by a 1998 bond issue that passed with a 70% vote. The main library needed to be replaced, but like you, I don't think much of the design of the new building, except that I rather like the idea of putting the stacks on a continuous spiral. ISTM the architect was being weird for the sake of weirdness, and IMO the building seems unlikely to hold up well either artistically or otherwise. The big main revolving door has already had to be replaced (with a regular door) and the building isn't 10 years old yet.(snip) I also would like to say that in Seattle in particular, the library system has been on a huge building jag that in my opinion was largely unnecessary. The downtown monstrosity is truly a monument to hubris and stupidity. I detest even walking by the building, let alone going into it.
I don't avoid going into it—since I work downtown it's the most convenient branch for picking up a book after work—but I'll confess there is an escalator inside the building that I do avoid, due to a really repellent artwork alongside it. At the time "Libraries for All" was up for vote, there were some interesting ideas being floated, like putting the main library in the Frederick & Nelson building (they had recently gone out of business) or in the old railroad station at 4th & Jackson. It's too bad the original main library doesn't survive. It looks like you'd get smarter just walking into the place.