Endorsement: Yes on Geneva library building

The Geneva Public Library building was built 109 years ago and added onto three times, most recently in 1998.

Like most things that are that old, it is almost beyond repair. The windows leak, the heating is inefficient, the roof needs work. Parking is woefully inadequate - there is no dedicated parking - and both the building and its one handicapped spot out front make it unfriendly to people with disabilities.

It has served its purpose, but it's had its day.

The library district has purchased the former Sixth Street School site, and the old school has been torn down. Library officials hope to replace the 27,000-square-foot library with a new one a little more than twice its size on the 2-acre lot with abundant parking, a drive-up window, movable interior walls for flexible spaces, plenty of room for youth programs and collaborative meeting spaces.

Even though the building would be 57,000 square feet, library officials feel they can operate it at about the same cost as presently, given some savings with storage, utilities and rental of parking spots.

The cost of the project would be $21.8 million, paid back through 20 years of bonds. The expected cost in the first year for the owner of a $300,000 house would be an additional $100.

Given the current library's proximity to city hall, it could be used for an expansion of that facility down the road.

A strong library is one facility in town that appeals to people from all age groups, not only providing a variety of services and materials, but also helping to improve property values. This project is a smart investment for Geneva. Vote yes.