This is what the library looked like before the remodel. It was a bit cramped. This is why the librarian might get a funny look on her face when people come from Dallas, or California, say, and start LOUDLY complaining about how small and out of date our library is.
There was barely room for the librarian to get in and out of her chair, as you can see.
And those metal folding chairs were uncomfortable, especially if you sat too long. Plus, they didn't adjust for different height needs. (See child with armpits resting on table, above.) Quite a few of them were dented and rusty, and they got durn cold in the winter.
Also, there was no privacy. People could see your computer screen, if they wanted to, or just by accident. And those banquet tables weren't exactly handicap accessible.
While the building at 319 McKinney was being re-done, we had a much larger space over at 317 Woody (thanks to Preacher Caldwell!), but with cheap, white, particle board shelves (our old shelves were "built-in" or too heavy to move), and a similar set-up for the computers. People weren't running into each other, but there was still the matter of those uncomfortable chairs, privacy, and handicap accessibility. Plus, the shelves were starting to bow, really badly, from the weight of the books, and one of them had completely fallen apart when it was moved to make way for a delivery.
But, you know what? Not one person complained. We all knew we were working with what we had, and that things could be worse. Like not having any computers at all. Or no library at all.
The Library was always free, clean, and available to everyone. It had a great selection of books, lots of movies, free faxing, printing, copying, use of the phone, and almost enough computers. And regular patrons who were proud of the place.
Now, everyone's just a bit more proud is all.
