Critics: $2.3M Detroit library project a symbol of waste amid budget crisis

[The Northerner]

Detroit — Detroit Public Library officials say finances have grown so bad they could close most neighborhood branches, but in a few weeks plan to unveil a revamped wing of a main library that even administrators say spares few expenses.

The South Wing is stocked with 20 yellow and orange European lounge chairs that cost $1,092 apiece, artistic pendant light fixtures and two alcohol-burning fireplaces. The project morphed from a $300,000 furniture update to a $2.3 million overhaul with new floors, study rooms, lighting and built-in, wood-framed book shelves.

"$1,100 per chair is reckless spending for a public institution," said Todd Kelly, president of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 1259, which represents 125 workers, including clerks, janitors and security staffers.

"It would be easier to swallow the current situation if we didn't see things like that."

Read more: http://detnews.com/article/20110422/METRO/104220381/Critics--$2.3M-Detroit-library-project-a-symbol-of-waste-amid-budget-crisis#ixzz1KGTC3aus

[LiberalFighter]

1. The library is suppose to be a library. Not a museum or recluse for the wealthy.

What the hell is the deal with food expenses? There is no justification for it. In my opinion, no business or organization should pay for any meals. It is an expense that employees would normally pay themselves because eating is something they have to do.

The library board/commission members should all be fired/removed.