Editorial | Fixing what is broken

The University recently announced that renovations to Du Bois College House - originally set to begin next year - will in fact start next month.

This decision to renovate the increasingly dilapidated low rise could not be more welcomed. For years, students and staff who live and work in Du Bois have pushed for these updates, charging that the dorm was ignored in favor of the Quadrangle and high rises, which are more popular with on-campus residents. Those who have campaigned for the renovations should be commended and proud that their hard work has paid off.

Although comparatively few students live in Du Bois and other low rises, their needs should not be ignored in favor of other on-campus residences. Work on the other low rises - especially Gregory College House, which is in a state similar to Du Bois' - should come soon. The principal of having "One University" should extend to all college houses.

Editorial Follow-Up

After receiving much criticism for his decision to close 11 libraries in order to save a miniscule amount of money in the next yearly budget, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter last week decided to save funds in other areas of the budget.

Although the deficit is a serious and pressing matter - projected costs will total about $1 billion - Nutter is right in not cutting libraries. The 11 libraries are worth far more than the $8 million their closings would save.

Additionally, Nutter's more-concerted effort at open deliberation of cuts better involves citizens in the future of the city.

We disapproved of this plan in the first place and are grateful that Nutter righted his course.

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