A Library for the Future For over a century, New York's majestic central library on Fifth Avenue has drawn grateful scholars and dazzled tourists. Faced with financial uncertainties and a pressing need to modernize, the president of the New York Public Library system, Anthony Marx, has put forward a $300 million proposal to renovate the flagship building. The plans, which are still evolving, sound both necessary and forward-thinking in this digital era. But the library's overseers have to take care that they preserve the essence of this cultural landmark. Mr. Marx and the city must make certain that the renovation provides the widest possible public access to the library's collection. So far, the city has promised $150 million, and the library must come up with the balance. The plan calls for selling the Mid-Manhattan branch and the Science, Industry and Business Library and folding their collections into the central branch. The central library will then become a circulating library as well as a research facility. Combining the three libraries will mean about twice as many people, or more than three million a year, will use the central branch. To accommodate more users, the architect Norman Foster is expected to design new public space in areas that are now closed. The Rose Main Reading Room and other special collections will remain as they are. About two million volumes will be moved elsewhere, probably to a facility in New Jersey, though more than two million will remain in the building. Mr. Marx has said getting off-site books should take about a day. Though some library lovers want nothing to change, this plan could revitalize the library and make it as much a resource for the public as it is a research haven for writers and scholars.