Breuer Library UPDATE: The Fulton County Commission voted unanimously at their June 4, 2008 meeting to approve a motion made by Commissioner Rob Pitts to “amend the Library Facility Master Plan to implement building a new Atlanta/Fulton County Central Library in lieu of renovating the current facility,” according to the post agenda available here.
Based on this vote, it appears that the commission may not be aware of the architectural significance of the structure, and the importance of finding an appropriate use, be it main library or otherwise. The next Fulton Commission meeting is scheduled for June 18 (see below). Contact information is available here.
Not just one, but two architecturally significant Modern Atlanta libraries are facing challenges, potential demolition, or sale.
As the DOCOMOMO/US, Georgia Chapter noted earlier this year, the Buckhead branch library is a remarkable structure, worthy of preservation. Due to public outcry, Fulton County Commissioners (with Rob Pitts abstaining) voted to support preservation of the branch in March. Perhaps the commissioners have a short memory - the County commission has been asked to consider a plan for a new library - if the Library is sold.
It is very important that commissioners hear our support one more time, before and during the June 18th meeting - a lack of response could doom the building - contact information here, meeting location:
Fulton County Commission
Public Chambers
141 Pryor Street
Atlanta, GA 30303
Not only is the Buckhead Branch under consideration for sale, Fulton County Commissioner Rob Pitts recently “voted to place a $150 million bond referendum on the fall ballot…” which “… includes about $40 million to overhaul the central library downtown…” according to a recent Creative Loafing article (AJC article here).
Pitts says “Rather than spend $40 million to renovate an old building, we should build a world-class, signature facility that’s more user-friendly.”
The Marcel Breuer-design central library, completed in 1977, is a notable Downtown Atlanta landmark.
It is most important that both the Fulton County Commission and the Atlanta-Fulton County Library Board of Trustees hear from citizens who understand the significance of both of these buildings, more here, including contact information.
Update (thanks Brandy Morrison!):
