Wheaton library cafe renovations to begin soon

Construction will soon be underway at the Wheaton Public Library to convert a space on the western end of the building into a coffee cafe.

The library board approved a contract Monday night with Construction Solutions of Illinois for $82,723 to complete renovations to the existing "Parkview Commons" space, which has large windows overlooking Adams Park.

Work that the company will do includes some electric, plumbing and the installation of sinks, counters, cabinets and other essentials that a vendor would need to operate a cafe.

However, the vendor - which could be selected as soon as next week - will have to provide appliances, such as a brewer.

Library Director Betsy Adamowski said two potential vendors will make a presentation during the next board meeting, which is scheduled for next Monday at city hall.

The vendor will pay a monthly rent to occupy the space. Board member James Harding asked where the new revenue will go and Adamowski said she anticipates it being used to replenish the library's marketing efforts. Currently, she said, there is no marketing budget.

Board member Barbara Wonser asked how the library could afford the project.

"This is a good year to do this, frankly," Treasurer Jim Kranjc said.

About $56,000 has been moved from the technology fund - which was overallocated - to the building fund, Kranjc said.

In addition, about $40,000 was already set aside in the current budget for the building fund, resulting in a total fund balance of about $96,000.

Kranjc said there's enough money in the fund for it to "still be in good shape" after paying for the renovations.

It is estimated that it will be a few weeks before construction begins, as approval is needed from the city and health department.