Requirements for Our New Library
A New Building Committee was formed to oversee and direct the planning for the construction of the new building on the donated land.
The following list of requirements for our new Library were drafted by The Board of Trustees and are being used by the building and construction planners to design our new Library.
- Open floor plan, between 4,000 and 5,000 square feet
- Multi-Purpose room / Classroom / Meetings / Performance area
- Director’s Office, kitchen area, & separate break area for Staff
- Drive up drop-box, budget permitting
- Areas for the display of art and/or local historical artifacts
- IT room (dedicated server room / closet)
- Media area with 8 computers
Funding for the construction of the library will come from a variety of sources. Read more about Construction Funding.
Why Do We Need a New Library?
Growing Demand for Library Services and Materials
- By state standards, our building is almost 50% too small.
- Library use grew by 50% in the last 7 years.
- Internet use grew by 100% in the last 7 years.
- The Library hosted over 100 programs in 2018.
- Our available table space is frequently filled up.
There is No Space to Expand
- The children’s area is stretched to capacity.
- Insufficient seating for families to visit together.
- The teen area is practically nonexistent.
- During events, the library is near to the occupancy limit.
- The adults lack a comfortable quiet space.
- Staff is in need of adequate work and storage areas.
- Our old facility is damp and leaks constantly.
Did you know?
Libraries are a great investment in the community.
Most libraries across the country are funded very consistently over time. Capital infusions towards libraries can increase the reading scores of students in the areas which the library serves!
Read the report Published in 2021 from the Chicago Federal Reserve.
The Returns to Public Library Investment (REVISED July 2021)