I strongly urge approval of this initiative for two reasons: It will considerably optimize use of existing space in both buildings and it will save the taxpayers a lot of money.
Moving the library will not preclude return of the meeting room to its present use, but would as an interim measure considerably increase the space available to the library and in exchange provide a column-free fully accessible space in the present library for meetings involving a handful to 40 or 50 people.
Furthermore, moving the library to a renovated Town Hall will present a very attractive package to available funding sources with an interest in historic building preservation, public safety and handicapped accessibility, and public library assistance.
As owner of these two fine old historic structures, Warren is obligated to both maintain them and refit them to current needs and standards, and moving the library will be a significant first step to accomplishing this objective. And it can be done with town and library funds already set aside and significant contributions from outside funding sources.
Barry Simpson, selectman
Warren
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