Cook library district unofficially names buildings

As plans for a two-site, $14 million Cook Memorial Public Library District expansion plan continue progressing, officials on Tuesday informally settled on names for the buildings.

Some library board members and administrators voiced support for using the district name as the primary identities for both sites, one of which is in Libertyville and the other in Vernon Hills. The buildings' names would also include references to their specific locations.

So under the quickly discussed proposal, the signs for the library in downtown Libertyville would be called "Cook Memorial Public Library District -- Cook Park," a reference to the park in which the library now is located. The branch planned for Vernon Hills would be called "Cook Memorial Public Library District - Aspen Drive," which refers to the proposed building's address.

Board member Karen Broms suggested the nearly identical names. Keeping a singular identity for the sites is essential because they're both in the same district, she said.

Board President Aaron Lawlor was among the supporters of the suggestion, saying the branding of the two sites is important.

No formal decision was made.

The discussion occurred during a review of updated renderings and plans with the architects working on the project. They said names need to be chosen soon so they can bring sign concepts to the respective village boards for approval.

The expansion plan calls for the addition of about 11,200 square feet to the main library and the construction of a new 20,000-square-foot building in Vernon Hills. About $7 million will be spent at each site.

Officials hope to ask builders for construction bids later this year.