Library News

Proposed Mount Pleasant Library Project Will Hinder Access to Seniors & Residents with Disabilities

DC Public Library leadership (DCPL) wants to renovate and expand the Mount Pleasant Library, which is the only library serving all of Ward One. This project calls for removing the current accessibility ramp and replacing it with a new one.

The proposed new ramp will take library users to the rear of the building into the new expansion. In addition, it is about three times as long and as high as the current ramp, making it harder for seniors and disabled library users from accessing the building and library services.

DCPL has not asked any Ward One seniors or library users with disabilities if this is ok. DCPL has not asked any organizations or City agencies serving seniors and residents with disabilities if this ramp would be appropriate.





REDUCTION IN ACCESS

In DCPL's rush to build a library expansion without asking how it would affect surrounding neighbors and library patrons, they will be permanently eliminating library access to many Ward One's elderly, frail and disabled. A ramp which is seven feet high, versus one which is less than three feet deep will indeed impact how many patrons with mobility issues can get into the library.

The following organizations have recently voted in favor and/or written letters of concern regarding opposition to the proposed ramp:

More letters -- click here

 

Ramp-Up Recepetion, held at Samuel Kelsey Senior Apartments
located at Park Road and 14th Street, NW
Ron Gray walking the ramp, video below...

Given that construction of our library plans will last for generations, a decision to move too quickly will hinder access to many residents for generations to come. We must make time to hear out all concerns in an open and according way, aspiring to tenants of good civic discourse.

There is still time to change the proposal so that our newly renovated Ward One library can serve all of our users equally.


WHAT YOU CAN DO EASILY, RIGHT NOW...