The NPL, built at the beginning of the twentieth century, is a stupendous building. It was constructed of materials that no builder would dare to use today, unless he wanted to quickly exceed budget. Its square footage allows for stacks that rival other local libraries, even those in the fancy suburbs. The business stack alone (section 158.) is formidable.
That being said, a major gripe---the computer terminals. There are 35 of them, again, impressive. The problem is they are slower than erosion, making the internet of the 90's, by comparison, seem like the Amtrack Acela Express. Reminds me of when Jackie Gleason reputedly had a phone in his limo in the 1950's. The problem was, it took thirty minutes for a call (operator-assisted) to complete. There were no cell towers back then, that's why I refrained from saying he had a cell in his car.
Okay, the city has budget issues and cutbacks.
So, why is there is a major undertaking on the facade of the building? Cosmetic improvements at the expense of functionality?
Can someone please enlighten me?
post-script 4-3-11 received reply from reference librarian, , who rightfully corrected me and shared this info. Construction in front is to install equipment for the disabled. In addition, the NPL has received a grant from Verizon to convert to high-speed internet, should be ready to go by the fall. -ac
For more info, go to http://www.npl.org/
No comments:
Post a Comment