Local ·
Williamsburg’s New Library
WILLIAMSBURG, VA — Possibly thinking it was a historical building in Colonial Williamsburg, the City Council voted unanimously this week to move forward with a new $32M book storage facility, sometimes referred to as a "Library."
One city planner - who was only available for interview on his car phone - commented, "Some people said, why not make room for the future. We said, why not make room for the past."
The $32.3 million covers construction alone. Soft costs add another $4.85 million, which must be for shag carpet.
"I support reading," said longtime resident Pam Ostrander. "I just think if you're spending $37 million, maybe do it on something that's actually going to be used. I'm 75 and haven't read a book in 15 years. But I did download Pride and Prejudice to listen to on the plane when I went to visit my grandchildren."
"I love the library. I go there, like once a week," said 24-year-old Jordan Mays, parked outside in his car with a laptop balanced on the steering wheel. "I don't go inside though. I just sit in the lot for the wifi. It's strong, and I don't have to buy a cup of coffee to use it."
"I'm not sure what people do at a library anymore, it's basically a museum with a late fee," said local business owner Frank Delgado. He jokingly added, "I bet it has horse and buggy parking out front." Then he looked at the rendering. It does.