As representatives of Capitol Neighborhoods Inc. and Downtown Madison Inc., we support the mayor's proposal for a new Central Library. The current Central Library is in dire need of upgrade. The Fiore proposal to replace the current building with a state-of-the-art structure will best serve the city of Madison and its citizens.

A new Central Library will enable Madison public libraries to deliver the services library users expect and need in the 21st century, important for users of the entire library system through its many branches. The proposal will create a Central Library that will function as a hub of activity and an information center for the Madison community as a whole. It will also provide much-needed public meeting space for individuals and civic groups and will serve as a public commons for our community.

The Fiore proposal will be an aesthetic enhancement to the West Washington Avenue corridor and will serve to anchor the cultural district surrounding the Overture Center. In addition, it will improve the quality of life for all residents, visitors and workers in our community.

For these reasons, we urge the City Council to support the mayor in moving the Central Library proposal forward as it is proposed in his current budget.

- Adam Plotkin, president, CNI; and Susan Schmitz, president, DMI

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