From: Kimberly Hoffman
Columbus
In response to the letter to the editor in The Republic on the removal of the cross at the former North Christian Church site, (“Former North Christian cross removal raises questions”, Aug. 24):
There has been much discussion over the recent removal of the cross from the previous North Christian Church site. Both the library and members of the church have explained the following multiple times.
The church was gifted the library. It was stipulated, by the North Christian Church congregation, the cross would be removed and relocated to a church camp property in Bedford. This was not decided by Bartholomew County Public Library. It was decided by the members of North Christian Church.
In BCPL’s Facebook post on August 13, they responded in detail to questions that had been raised regarding the property. The library has taken care to identify which areas of the building are high significance and need preservation, even utilizing Prudon & Partners, an architectural firm from New York City, to identify how best to preserve this amazing building.
The library has been an excellent steward of the historic Bartholomew County Library Building for decades. They are deeply vested in the welfare of our community. As a Friends of the Library board member, I have witnessed the love and care of this amazing group of individuals. I attended several of the Library Board meetings where the decision to accept the gift of the North Christian Church property was discussed at length. The decision was not taken lightly. I know they will put the same care into the 850 Tipton Lane property as they do their other locations. This expansion will enhance services to the north side of town, especially as it is within walking distance of four schools.
Let’s embrace the truths of this situation and support the library as it works to create a new space at 850 Tipton Lane.
