An Open Letter on the Closure of the Orient Heights Library

As you probably heard today, Trustees of the BPL voted to close the Orient Heights Library and create a brand new lead library in East Boston.

I understand the depth of feelings about the closure. I have received many calls and emails explaining why that branch should remain open. I used that branch growing up and have very fond memories of it.

That said, I strongly believe that the BPL's plan for our library system will be a great benefit to East Boston.

In the short term: most of the non-library services performed in the Barnes Ave. building--reading for preschoolers; senior activities; book discussions; etc.--will be moved into the Orient Height Community Center. **We will maintain the same level of these types of services as before and coordinate with the Elderly Commission; Boston Public Schools; BCYF; and the private sector to expand services and try new programming.** If there is something new you'd like to see, let me know and we can try it. Also, at that location you will have parking unlike at Barnes Ave.

All specific library functions will be merged into the Meridian Branch. Meridian will NOT have services cut further thanks to the building consolidation and overall pay/workforce reduction (i.e. layoffs of individual library staff). We can arrange for book return pick up in the Heights and will experiment with delivery services for seniors who cannot walk to Meridian.

In the medium term: last July we completed a feasibility study for a new "lead" library in East Boston. The building will have over 20,000 square feet which is nearly twice the usable space of the existing (Meridian/Heights) buildings combined. We are currently looking for a site and then will proceed with design and ultimate construction. East Boston has one of the fastest growing youth populations in the City and we need a modern building that can accommodate our needs.

The closure step will be difficult for our community, but the rewards of a better managed system and new library will be an asset for us in the coming decades. Please let me know how you feel either by email, facebook, or call me 617 635 3485. Thanks.

ERNANI DEARAUJO, ESQ.
East Boston Coordinator
Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services
Boston City Hall, Room 708, Boston, MA 02201
617-635-3485 (p)
617-635-3498 (f)

submitted 4/9/2010 via email.