About Town
Does Evanston Value Bars Over Books?
Are libraries considered less powerful economic engines than bars in Evanston? Patch columnist Christine Wolf argues that recent city council decisions suggest bars are valued over books.
It may seem like old news that the city of Evanston shuttered the South Branch of the Evanston Public Library in 2011, but the saga continues. While the citizen-run Mighty Twig became the Chicago Avenue/Main Street (CAMS) Branch as of January 12, 2013, many residents are frustrated to see the city offer new businesses – such as bars – cash incentives while volunteers continue to scrape together funds to keep our branches open. As the economy dipped, cities across America closed library branches. Money was tight and tough decisions were made. I, for one, wasn’t someone who fought against the closing of the South Branch. In my mind, we had an outstanding Main Library, not to mention a North Branch. While I was disappointed to say goodbye to …
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Patrice
5:02 pm on Friday, March 1, 2013
I would have thought that the 8th ward would welcome the heavy traffic that a sports complex would have brought to the area. What's more positive than that? I know when my kids use to play sports, and practice almost everyday, I would drop them off and run errands to all the surrounding establishments. I think that decision was short sighted. more ›