Renovation of Palatine library begins
An $850,000 renovation project at the Palatine Public Library District's main library begins today.
The purpose isn't to reconfigure shelves and add materials, but rather adapt the 15-year-old space to how people use libraries today. That means more study rooms, additional computers, a vending area with seating and - officials hope - a drive-up book drop-off.
Construction should wrap up by early November.
Director Susan Strunk said the library, located at 700 N. North Court, hosted surveys and a series of focus groups last summer to get input.
"We compiled what the trustees, staff and public wanted and tried to incorporate as much as we could into plans," Strunk said.
Because the library's special reserve fund could only pay for about half of the wish list, the renovation is limited to the second floor. A wider, more open central stairway will be part of the improvements.
About $250,000 of the project cost is allotted to repairing the upper level of the garage. Strunk is hopeful architects will be able to work in a drive-up book drop-off - an amenity patrons have wanted for years.
"It's proving challenging for a number of reasons," she said, adding staff still is trying to find a way to make it happen.
The library will buy new furniture and double the computer lab to 16 computers. Staff is also considering experimenting with checking out laptops so patrons can be comfortable and work from anywhere within the library. Strunk envisions an especially peaceful spot to be along the north side, which overlooks a creek, trees and water retention area.
More than 5,000 square feet of space currently used by staff will be converted for patrons.
Tilton, Kelly and Bell is serving as the project's architectural firm; Construction Solutions of Illinois is the general contractor.
No computer classes will be held this summer and segments of the second floor will be closed as the project progresses. Toward the end, the library may temporarily completely close while workers replace the stairway.
The Palatine Public Library District serves about 90,000 residents, mostly in Palatine and Hoffman Estates. For renovation updates, go to palatinelibrary.org or twitter.com/palatinelibrary.