$55 Million Proposal for Lincoln Library

More Video...

LINCOLN, Neb.-- Proponents for a new library in downtown Lincoln proposed a $55 million bond to replace the Bennett Martin Public Library.

The proposal was shared with LIBA during a luncheon Monday.

The library board says the $55 million would be used to either tear down the Pershing Center and build the library on its grounds, or remodel the historic building. A portion of the money would also go toward the remodels and upkeep of some of the library branches.

"Libraries are of course part of the education system. They're just as much of the educational system as public schools," said President of the Lincoln Library Board of Directors, Herb Friedman. "And we think when you invest in a library you are investing in education."

LIBA, who has not taken a stance on a new downtown library, said that they would like to see the private sector purchase the Pershing Center, giving the developer the opportunity to add to the value and appeal of the downtown area.

They argue that voters who approved to build the $186 million Pinnacle Bank Arena where under the impression that the private sector would purchase the Pershing Center and increase the tax base.

Friedman and other board members argue that the Pershing Center has "always been public," and they don't want to see it end up in the hands of the private sector.

The library board compared Lincoln libraries to two dozen other cities of similar size and culture and found that the Capital City is decades behind.

"We know that things are changing," said Library Director, Pat Leach. "And we want to make sure that our library system evolves with those changes."

If the city approves the proposal, it would still have to be voted on by taxpayers, who would be affected by a small property tax increase.

The earliest the proposal could end up on a ballot is the Spring of 2017, according to Friedman.

From Source: http://www.nbcneb.com/home/headlines/55-Million-Proposed-for-Lincoln-Library-318040861.html