Something new - it's all in the delivery

MILFORD — Initial opposition to the design of new main branch of the Pike County Library seemed to quell Monday evening. An audience of 150 residents packed the courtroom at the Pike County Courthouse for the first of many presentations to be given on the new library. Chairperson of the building taskforce, Mayleyne Syracuse, and architect, Fredric Schwartz, spoke to the crowd and detailed both the process of building the library, the need for it, its design, and function. The justification for a contemporary design of the building was emphasized, with Schwartz highlighting several other buildings within the borough that were the “best works of their time,” not buildings which conformed to a certain time period and architecture. Sean Strub voiced his opinion about the necessity of a modern building and its importance to the youth of the county. Many citizens in attendance commented that the presentation sold them on the design n whether it was the library’s environmentally friendly concept, its linkage between city and nature, or the many opportunities to involve the community in new programs. The design was unanimously chosen by a jury of community members and experts earlier this year. Not all were in agreement or convinced by the presentation, however. “I’ve made up my mind already,” stated a borough resident who stood up in opposition. He stated that the library would not fit in with local architecture, and it should not even be located within the borough since the largest population it would be serving is located outside of Milford. A future neighbor of the library also expressed her concern with the building overwhelming her house. Schwartz and various library board members responded to these criticisms, which also included an objection to the type of tree planted on the premises. The largest obstacle is still waiting down the road for the taskforce with the borough’s Architectural Review Board. But Syracuse and Schwartz both commented that they remain optimistic and confident, and that it is too early to tell what, if anything, will have to be compromised.