Credibility of library supporters questioned

The ongoing personal and quite vicious attacks on Bob Russell and, by extension, anyone else who is not convinced this is the best time to spend an estimated $12 million on a new library building prompts the question: why is the pro side so adamant?

It appears that growth in demand for library services is mainly in the digital area, an area that would not seem on its face to justify such an expenditure. Physical structures are not only expensive to build but also costly to operate and maintain, and we already have a white elephant in Servus Place that has not fulfilled the promise of its promoters, those who claimed it would be self-sufficient and even a money- maker for the city.

It would be helpful if those enthusiasts for a larger library would support their positions with something more than ad hominem attacks, and perhaps disclose any vested interests or connections with the planning, engineering departments, consultants or prospective builders. Have consultants ever gone against proposals made by city council, anywhere, no matter how fantastical?

For myself, I admit that as an 80-plus-year-old, I am concerned that present and future increases in taxes for redundant buildings may make it impossible for me to live in St. Albert in the future. Now, that may be purely selfish on my part, but then also consider that raises in taxes impacts businesses and services already in operation here, to their detriment. Is incurring more debt a good idea at this time when an economic downturn affects Alberta at this point more than any other province? We need to keep some money in reserve to maintain what we have, like water pipes, and essential services like hospitals, instead of building roads for which we have very little need, and physical structures for online services.

Doris Wrench Eisler, St. Albert