In addition to the five regular branches, Brampton Library also operates one interim site, in the north-east region of the city.

Under those circumstances, the interim site would not be very useful.

It has not found even an interim site and has said that it will not take the wastes until it does.

Preparations are being made," Jane said, "and Ray Scott is thinking of the closed valleys as safe interim sites.

"What they have there now are two interim sites," Mr. Roberts said, "and what we agreed to do is leave them one permanent site."

Cost of providing an interim site while the old library was demolished and rebuilt exceeded $10 million.

Mr. Herrington said the interim site was "important to the overall plan."

If Columbia cannot delay the moving date, said Caroline Oyama, a spokeswoman for the library, the city may try to find an interim site.

It is not clear who would pay for an interim site.

The collection was shown in limited form at the interim sites.