At storied NY Public Library, renovation plan leads to debate over libraries' changing goals
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Plans for a major change within the New York Public Library's landmark main building have kindled an intellectual culture clash over its direction and the future of libraries themselves.
The $300 million-plus proposal entails moving millions of books out of the Fifth Avenue building's research stacks and into storage. That would make way for a lending library with other volumes, computers and a cafe.
Two other nearby library spaces would be sold to help pay for it.
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Library officials say the plan will save the research books and millions of dollars, among other benefits.
But some scholars, preservationists and other critics say the project will turn a singular institution into library lite.
The controversy comes amid broader debate about libraries' role when information is only a touchscreen away.