George,

For the past few years, I have observed with wonder and enthusiasm the building of the Live Arts building and the remarkable rehabilitation and expansion of the Paramount Theatre. The engineering challenges of the latter are worthy of a cover story [in The Daily Progress].

These worthwhile projects cost many millions of dollars, and our affluent and community-minded citizens have come to their aid. There is a lot of money out there with which to make a difference.

The plight of the homeless comes to my conscience quite often. The Daily Progress's front page story on Charlottesville's homeless on March 28 ("The invisible level") was just such a reminder and might bring some action. A few days prior, I had discussed the issue with a City Council candidate.

You can see my point coming.

A project to provide low cost housing for the homeless would be beyond my understanding. However, providing a space where these people could spend the day seems very reasonable. It would be a place to play cards, watch TV, drink coffee, sit, nap, a place for their children to do homework and, most of all, a place to stay warm. .

Like other public library employees I am very aware of the homeless. City libraries across the country have an unofficial role of being a sanctuary for these people.

When it's freezing; where else can they go? Problems arise, but most people in libraries accept this humanitarian role. Still, there could be a better facility, just for them...

It need not involve a new building; empty office or warehouse space would be fine. A "world class" space isn't needed; just a basic clean, well lit space with amenities and supervision would be sufficient. The cost would be a mere pittance compared with the above mentioned projects.

Is there someone out there with the wherewithal to lead this drive? The money is here, but the will has to be tapped first.

Jim Barns (July 19, 2005)