Sunday, May 4, 2008

Betts Library: A Good Bet



"Bright Red Tulip", originally uploaded by twg1942.


My recent post on Syracuse Libraries and WiFi Hotspots inspired an outing in search of the same, and open on a Sunday afternoon. Betts was the place.

A Pennsylvania bluestone patio with red tulips in bloom greets patrons entering the building from the rear parking lot. Nearby, a bench whispers an invitation to remain in the cozy courtyard and enjoy the garden awhile. This south side entrance at the intersection of the building's two wings appears to welcome patrons with open arms.

Just inside the doors, a cluster of upholstered '60's style arm chairs invites visitors to read one of the newspapers or magazine arranged neatly on racks. Straight ahead is one of three library staff persons ready to assist. Along the way are several carousels of DVD’s that cater to the typical library patron of today.

Built in 1963, Betts Library is a contemporary looking brick building with a floor plan that resembles a “T” with a tilted top. It was designed by Helen Gillespie Kotz, a Syracuse architect and partner in the firm, Gillespie and Granger, to replace the original structure built in 1949. During her career, Gillespie designed several other libraries in Syracuse and Central New York.

Inside, Betts resembles a modern lodge with high ceilings and exposed teak wood beams that wear a cedar stain. Walls of bluestone, natural materials and period furniture in solid beech evoke a Frank Lloyd Wright feeling. At either side of the “T” horizontal line, a pair of sleek stained glass transom windows add visual interest. The top portion of the eastern wall is trimmed in flagstone, with built-in bookshelves beneath. The lighting is excellent, thanks to a wall of picture windows that face the patio, and transoms that line the north side of the “T”. A fabulous Pennsylvania bluestone fireplace built into the southwest corner wall makes quite a statement.

The library was named after Frederick W. Betts, the first Trustee of the Library, whose framed photo hangs on the wall just inside the door. There is a plaque out front, but it could not be easily located among the plantings. No further historical information was available there. The Syracuse Newspapers and other sources indicate that Betts was the Chief Editorial writer for the Syracuse Herald and a minister of First Universalist Church who was active in the community. Well after Betts passed away, his wife gifted $10,000 to the library that bears his name. The interest still provides funds that help sustain it.

Betts is a great place to bring children. In front of the fireplace, a reading and learning area is designated just for them. Upholstered seating provides parents and kids with a comfortable place to read together. They can choose from an abundant selection of children’s books that are well organized and labeled on the rows and walls of cases and shelves. Several small round tables with pint sized chairs are arranged nearby, as well as a hub of four computer workstations reserved for children's use.

At least a dozen, newer technology Dell workstations with flat screen monitors are available. A staffer informed a patrons of their one hour limited use. Most of the desktop units are wisely arranged in the more shaded areas of the room, minimizing screen glare. Several workstations are labeled "15 minute express" for email or any other use people may have while on the run. These are dotted around the room. There is no contention for the computers today however, a steady stream of people has come in to use them. It's probably a different story after school.

Wireless internet access is available, and at least half of the six or seven tables of four have outlets beneath them, but they're difficult to see at first as they blend in with the carpeting. Grouping more tables near the large picture windows would allow visitors to take advantage of the natural light while enjoying an occasional glance of the patio garden. It’s a nice spot for people watching as well. On warm days, seating outdoors would be a plus.

The small number of tables available invites sharing during busy periods, which seems easily done in this comfortable space among neighborly people of all ages who came in and out to use the computers, drop off or check out books, or hang out and read for a while. One person came to receive computer instruction.

Several events are advertised in the Betts newsletter. This month they include “Buying A Digital Camera?”, a Book Discussion Group, Family Movie Night and others. "Betts Beta Fish Story Time" takes place on Thursday mornings for children 2 – 5 accompanied by a caregiver.

Although cars move quickly along the busy intersection nearby, the Valley feels very much like a solid city neighborhood, especially at the library. Nearby homes, schools, playgrounds and churches are visible from the windows. Clearly, Betts served as a hub for many families who lived in the neighborhood during the baby boom and the decades that followed.

Perhaps the neighborhood feel is nowhere better depicted than in the quilting tradition that began years ago. According to the staff, the quilting thing began with one of the librarians who regularly brought in quilts for display. Appreciation for works of art has a legacy at Betts.

Elizabeth Girard was head librarian from 1949 to 1964. She came to Betts after working at the main branch of the former Syracuse Public Library located in the old Carnegie Library building on Montgomery Street. Ms. Gerard held a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Syracuse University. Carnegie's combination library and museum provided opportunities for her to continue learning through the resources available and regular series of lunchtime lectures. Perhaps it was her enthusiasm for culture and community that had an influence on the redesign of the library so that it would include a place for lectures and exhibits. In any case, the display of handmade quilts grew into an annual event that takes place in Betts' adjoining auditorium.

This appreciation for quilting inspired the creation of the "Betts Library Quilt", a project initiated by Margaret Loomis. After quilting one square, she challenged other patrons to complete the work. It spawned a laissez-faire group of quilters to unite in 1985 in order to finish the quilt. One participant is the descendant of a Valley family with a long history: The Webster’s. Quilting became a thing for children too, as small displays of their paper and fabric quilts decorate one of the staff’s desks.

Betts is located at 4862 South Salina Street, just south of Seneca Turnpike (173). Support Betts next week as they hold their annual Book Sale.

For hours and other information, visit the Onondaga County Public Library web page on Betts Library.


Do you have any childhood memories of Betts or another library? Tell us about them in the comments.

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