Bigger Villa Park library needs voter support

Villa Park library officials are eyeing plans to construct a new building that would be nearly twice the size of the existing public library.

But before the new library could become a reality, voters would need to approve a property tax hike to help pay for the building's construction and operation.

"Our aim is to provide the best facility for the residents of Villa Park," library board President Robert Wagner said. "We're going to put the question to the community and see what the community says."

Wagner said the board is planning to put the library expansion question on the ballot in November. But a formal decision hasn't yet been made.

The ballot question would ask voters to give the library district permission to borrow $20 million to help pay for the proposed three-story, 45,000-square-foot building.

If approved by voters, the measure will cost the owner of a $250,000 home roughly $136 a year in additional property taxes.

Voters also could be asked to consider a second ballot question on whether the district's rate could be increased to help fund the new building's operating expenses. How much it would cost to operate the larger facility hasn't been calculated, Library Director Sandra Hill said.

The new building would replace the existing library at 305 S. Ardmore Ave. Plans call for the new library to be built south of the existing one.

Wagner said the project is contingent on the library negotiating a swap land with St. Alexander Catholic Church. The library also would need to purchase a nearby medical office and retail building

"There are lots of hurdles," Wagner said.

If built, the new library will have space for 144,000 print titles, quiet study rooms, group study rooms, more space for public computer work stations, and separate youth, adult and teen services areas, Hill said.

In addition, the building will have a dividable meeting room capable of accommodating up to 150 people.

The new facility also would feature a drive-up book return, a cafȩ or vending room and a larger parking lot with 74 spaces, in addition to on-street spots, Hill said.

Library officials say they also are exploring energy efficient options, including a green roof and a design that will enable future expansion.

Before architects from Chicago-based Nagle Hartray finalize the building plans, library officials are seeking more feedback from residents and community members.

"This building is the community's building," Hill said. "We would appreciate the public's input."

Architect Eric Penney added, "It makes for a better building if we get community input."

A special library board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. April 7 for residents to see the initial plans, make comments or ask questions. The forum will be held at the library.