Libraries are so 20th century. These days a $17/mo modem connection gets you instant access in your own home, or anywhere on a cellphone, to the world's largest library. I haven't gone to a physical library in years. They're for technophobe Luddites and people that have an obsession to hold paper in their hands. They do make places for homeless people to sleep but isn't it cheaper to build shelters? Yes, we have an obligation to provide access to information so citizens can make informed decisions, but few politicians respect the will of the majority anyway, so what's the need for physical libraries any more? Why not just provide public internet access in kiosks like coffee shacks, distributed within walking distance of everyone. Even if they had to drive there it would take less time than going to a central library. Flame on, bibliophiles. ;-) Tell me why you need a big special building for a library?