A 'no' vote for Winfield Library

The Winfield Public Library wants to borrow $1.8 million to improve the facility's handicapped accessibility and relieve crowding. The library is accessible to the handicapped now. However, because the library covers both floors, library officials say, it's difficult for those with disabilities to move from floor to floor. There is no elevator. The second floor is accessible only by going outside to the entrance of the desired floor. Restroom facilities also need to be improved to make sure people with disabilities can enter them.

Library officials also want to put an addition on the north side to add quiet rooms and generally more space. The addition makes up $350,000 to $400,000 of the project, library officials say.

Under the proposal, the homeowner of a $300,000 home would pay $38 more per year to the library. This is a smaller request than the library made of voters three years ago. Nevertheless, this year is not the year to ask voters for more money; we think library officials should find another way to upgrade the facilities or wait. We recommend a "no" vote.