Neighbors rally to reopen library bldg.

The building at 40th and Walnut streets is structurally unsound. Although it would cost several million dollars of the city's money to renovate the Free Library of Philadelphia's 83-year-old, structurally unsound building at 40th and Walnut streets, a group of area residents think it's worth it. Decorated with multicolored balloons and a sign that said "Save our library," the former home of the Free Library attracted plenty of attention Friday afternoon. About 50 adults and children circled in front of the building chanting "Save our library." The protesters braved grey skies that threatened rain to attend the rally. Beth Ann Johnson, the president of the Walnut Street's branch of the Friends of the Free Library, organized the 45-minute rally, which aimed at getting the Free Library moved back into its old home. A petition with the same goal -- started in March -- was also available at the rally for passersby to sign. Johnson hopes to give the petition to Philadelphia Mayor Ed Rendell and City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell once its 800 signatures grow to more than 1,000. "This library is greatly wanted in this neighborhood, and people are willing to fight for it," said Robin Dougherty, vice president of the University City Historical Society and an area resident. Library administrators closed the library in 1996 for minor renovations. After workers discovered more extensive damage, officials decided in 1997 that it would not be feasible to reopen the building. The University has promised to help the library find a new permanent location. In May, Free Library officials announced that the library would definitely not reopen in its old home. The Free Library is currently located in a two-story, University-owned building at 3927 Walnut Street. Penn is renting the location for $1 a year until the Free Library finds a new permanent location. Many neighborhood residents, although appreciative of having a library in the area, are unhappy with the temporary solution. Spring School of the Arts, a local day-care center, went to the protest with 10 reasons the community needs a bigger library -- kids. Theresa Blyther, an employee of the center, says she still considers the library a resource, despite its temporary location. "It's better than nothing," she said. "We make the best of it." Another group that joined the protesters were homeschoolers. Patty Callahan -- who teaches her four children at home -- says a big library is a critical resource, particularly for children who are educated at home. "Storytime hours allowed them to be with other children," she said, noting that there is not enough space in the temporary location for storytime to be held. Even though Lotte Gottschlich, treasurer of the Walnut Street's branch of the Friends of the Free Library, said she is grateful for the temporary library, she still hopes the rally and petition will work to re-open the former library. "This is the perfect building," Gottschlich said, explaining its location at a neighborhood "crossroads" makes it ideal. "It's where most people walk [by], and you can always find a parking place."