Resolution of the Friends of Tenley-Friendship Library on the Renovation of Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library
September 14, 2016
Whereas, the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Library (“MLK Library”) is DC’s central public library, an institution serving all District residents;
Whereas, the MLK Library is slated for renovation in the near future;
Whereas, the DC Public Library has not held a public forum in the past year in order for users in each and every Ward in the city (including Ward 3) to see the latest iteration of renovation plans and interim library planning;
Whereas, DC residents with disabilities, the elderly, children, and those with literacy, information technology, and research needs, and many others are directly affected by the renovation plans for the future MLK Library, including interim library planning;
Whereas, the DC Public Library has not made plans for public access to the Washingtoniana collection during the period of library renovation,
Therefore be it resolved:
- The Friends of Tenley-Friendship Library requests the DC Public Library, in coordination with the DC Council Committee on Education, host forums in all Wards for all library users to review the full scope and package of the latest and most-up-to-date MLK Library renovation design plans.
- The Friends of Tenley-Friendship Library requests that the DC Public Library prioritize plans for an interim library space that would allow the public to have access to the Washingtoniana collection during the period of the “MLK Library” renovation.
- The Friends of Tenley-Friendship Library requests that after participating in reviewing the latest design planning, both for the renovation of MLK Library and interim library facilities, including the Washingtoniana Room, DC library users receive a calendar or date certain by which to make comments on the proposed MLK renovation plans.