After much discussion and community input, the Federal Way School Board delayed a decision on a library/cafeteria at Lakota Middle School.

Board president Ed Barney suggested that the board revisit the topic in two weeks to gather further information.

In the current design plans, there is no set area that will be the school’s library, which concerns some parents and community groups.

Several community members came forward to speak at Tuesday’s board meeting in favor of a designated library.

“The library is not just a collection of books,” Dave Bomgardner said. “It’s a refuge for many students. There’s many children whose only access to a computer is the library.”

The district’s plan for Lakota right now consists of three learning communities that will each have a great room, about one-third the size of a traditional cafeteria. The great rooms are intended to be very flexible and could be used for eating areas, a library area or both. School staff would decide how the space is used. However, the school board could use its executive power and rule that a designated library needs to be put in the plans. The board will meet again on Nov. 12.