Carol Stream District 93 discussing library redesign

Carol Stream Elementary District 93 has developed plans to redesign a library at Elsie C. Johnson School.

The proposal calls for an expanded library that includes skylights and flexible seating that can be moved into different formations.

The redesign also calls for a think tank with a movable glass wall that could accommodate private study sessions as well as a variety of group seating.

Superintendent Bill Shields said the school's current library space is very traditional, linear and "defined by bookshelves instead of being defined by collaboration or communication or creativity or critical thinking areas."

He said the district chose to first look at Elsie Johnson's library because they thought it needs the most work.

If the school board likes the proposed changes, he said, the administration would develop a timeline to make similar changes at other district libraries.

The next step includes looking at potential costs for the project, Shields said. All of the proposed improvements still need final board approval.

"What we don't want this to do is to have any impact or additional cost on our taxpayers," Shields said.

The district also is considering remodeling the front entrance of Elsie Johnson, which would expand office spaces and add more security measures. If both projects move forward, Shields said they would probably be done at the same time.