Council should act on this idea for library aid

I welcome all the support and information from activist volunteers and others who have contributed extensively to the Carnegie Libraries. My family always benefited tremendously from the libraries. I found both the Mount Washington and South Side branches relaxing places to work.

The news about Doug Shields' proposal to send some much-needed money to the libraries ("City May Bail Out Libraries With Fuel Fund Glut," Oct. 30) is the first time I've seen any recognition from the city that there's a problem and that the city government could do something about it.

I lived for several years in Mr. Shields' district and was impressed by his community involvement and his good reputation in the community. Nonetheless, the problems of the libraries are not dissimilar to the problems of the schools. It is appalling that we have so few young families choosing the city to live in or school their children. We found both to be acceptable and welcome for our child, now attending the University of Pittsburgh.

For there to be extended debate about this proposal to send excess budgeted money, not needed now, to the libraries, even for a year to come up with a good solution, without a concrete alternative, would be intolerable.

FRANK CORRENTI
Mount Washington