Delaware State U. library festering mold problem not a priority

Judging from their statements, Delaware State University officials have their priorities for capital improvements in a peculiar order. Artificial turf on the football field, a wellness center-sports arena and a new student center come first. Then they'll work on solving the mold problem in the university library.

Never mind the potential nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye or skin irritation that students with mold allergies might contract. Never mind that some people could even have more severe reactions.

Because few students apparently use the library, President Allen L. Sessoms justifies putting this problem on the back burner. He's supported by the chairman of the board of trustees, who contends that the Internet has outpaced libraries as a research tool for students.

Actually, the Internet has outpaced books as the primary research tool for college students. The American Library Association says Internet access is almost universal in libraries at institutions with enrollments of over 1,500 (98 percent). DSU has about 3,200 students.

And the computer lab in the mold-riddled William C. Jason Library-Learning Center was open and operating this week with students.

If, as the university contends, this building has been a maintenance problem since it opened 20 years ago, then the bigger question is what will it take to get its problems to the front burner? A lawsuit from an asthmatic student? This administration definitely doesn't need more legal challenges.

If the library is to be closed, renovated or razed, the health of the students should be the primary reason for doing it.