I spent 2 months in Kansas City, MO working as a consultant for FEMA. Working away from home for long periods is a drag in a lot of ways. But one of the benefits is time to explore new cities. How often in our normal lives can we find time to simply explore?
I thought of Madison when I visited a KC branch library in a mixed-use building. Madison also has plans to build a new library in combination with commercial space.
Although it was not their central library, which I did not visit, the KC branc was impressive.
The atrium as you walk in featured a nice circle book sculpture and a coffee kiosk.
The doorway in the rear leads to the atrium for the office building which is next to and above the library.
I also liked that, not only did the library offer free wi-fi, but patrons could check out laptops for free.
The space inside was filled with computer kiosks that were all being used.
A view of the outside followed by the bus rapid transit stop.
the sustainable city 
Thanks for the nice comments about our library.
Joel Jones
Plaza Branch Manager
Kansas City Public Library
Dear Joel,
My client would like to request permission to use the photo of your library on our Web site as part of a banner on the top of the page (the site is being redesigned). Please let us know if that is possible.
Thank you,
Aline
It is fine to use the photo.
Steve