Bartlett library starts its makeover
The Bartlett Public Library District dates back to 1982, as does much of its furniture.
Patrons will begin to notice a little less vintage and a lot more modern over the next several months as a $900,000 makeover unfolds.
"This next phase will be a little trying at times, but we'll have a really nice facility when it's finished," Library Director Todd Morning said.
Work should begin in a few weeks.
Some improvements will be aesthetic, like fresh paint and new carpeting. Others are aimed at harmonizing the space and increasing comfort and efficiency.
Besides new furnishings, interior walls will be knocked down to open up the 30,000-square-foot building. The library collection will be rearranged and customer service stations repositioned.
The library district solicited public input through surveys, exhibitions, public meetings and monthly coffee sessions with trustees.
The most popular request was to make a place for the computers, which are currently strewn about at available wall outlets.
Second on the community wish list was new furniture. Third was the overall notion that the library need to flow better.
"The original building has since had two additions put on, and it definitely feels like three different buildings," Morning said.
Officials discussed the idea of yet another addition, but that would require two referendums: one for a bigger library and one for a bigger operating budget.
"We figured that was a lot to ask, so we're working with what we have," Morning said.
The library district, which serves nearly 30,000 people each month, also decided it best to hold off on any major construction until after 2011, when bonds from the 1995 addition are to be paid off.
This remodeling project is being financed through the library district's capital reserve fund, so taxes won't go up. In 2006, officials applied for a $125,000 construction grant from the state, but Morning said they were told there was funding shortage.
There are no plans to close the library for an extended amount of time.
"Our goal is to stay open as much as possible," Morning said. "We may close a section or a morning here and there, but there's no specific schedule so far."
Library officials think the remodeling will be finished in mid-August, though they initially aimed for this winter.
"That was probably overly optimistic and a bit naïve," said Morning.
To kick off the project, the library is hosting a free party from 5 to 7 p.m. today.
The community can check out the new floor plans and take part in clinics put on by Home Depot. Bob the Builder from the popular PBS kids show will be on-hand for photographs.
If you go
What: Library Makeover Kickoff Party
When: 5 to 7 tonight
Where: Bartlett Public Library, 800 S. Bartlett Road
Cost: Free
More information: (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us