Date:23 February 2001

Subject:New Building

To: Department Heads

From:William C. Robinson, Head of Libraries

I have recently met with the President to discuss preliminary planning for a new library building. As we all know, the William C. Robinson Memorial Library is old and considerably overcrowded. The President informed me that at least two members of the Board of Trustees appear to be convinced that there is little need for a new building since "nearly all the materials needed by students and faculty will be available on the Web."

Please prepare for our March meeting a short list of points to support the need for a new library building in the age of the Internet. I have already suggested that libraries are a quiet haven for those who need to study and do research. I have also noted that many useful items are not available in a digital format. We really need pursuasive arguments if we are to move forward with a new building.

I appreciate your help.

----------------------------------------------------------------------