Editorial from Vice Chair of the Library Board-Sandy Foley

Homework, timelines, mapping, transparency. These words, often associated with education and with current governmental concerns, can be applied to the library's journey from wishful thinking to pending reality.

When the idea of a new library was being formulated, a city-wide survey was conducted to ascertain what kind of facility the community envisioned. Data was mapped, meetings were held and a strategic plan was formulated. The Library Board set up advisory groups and invited experts to speak before its televised meetings.

The board also commissioned a space needs assessment document that accounted for the use of every square foot in the new library, which will ultimately guide us to a state-of-the-art building that meets demands long into the future. We have looked at any and all options available for land and buildings, always keeping the financial ramifications and options in mind.

Because the library is and will always be a presence in the community, board members, staff, friends and the Library Foundation have worked with anyone and everyone who has been receptive to our dream. We have visited libraries throughout the state and the country and have joined with city managers, supervisors and business project developers to find the best fit for Carson City.

We have been on committees, worked with the Board of Supervisors, served with Downtown Redevelopment and the Downtown Consortium, and made our aspirations known in print and nonprint media.

We have done our homework and were poised and ready when the opportunity arose to become an integral part of the Carson Nugget Development Project.

Our homework, timeline, planning, transparency, financial stewardship and commitment have served us well, and we are ready to work with all parties to build toward what Carson City can be and not become mired in malaise.

It has been said that this development will burden future generations with tax consequences. How can a library, a public transit hub, a plaza, public parking and investment in cutting edge, high paying technology jobs (the public part of a public/private partnership) be considered a burden?

The burden is the status quo and a future that is questionable at best.

• Sandy M. Foley is vice chairperson of the Carson City Library Board of Trustees.