New Geneva Public Library is taking shape

Construction crews have gotten a lot of work completed on the interior and exterior of the new Geneva Public Library at 227 S. Seventh St. Library officials hope to wrap up construction in the spring of 2020.

The FAQ provides an update on the project:

What happens when construction is complete?

Once construction is complete, there are several steps we must perform before we can move to the new library, including reviewing the punch list, undergoing inspections, installing furniture and shelving, setting up the network, tagging the collection, and packing at the current library to prepare for the move.

When is the moving date?

The moving date will depend on the time frame required for the punch lists, inspections, and installations.

Will you be closed during the move to the new library?

We will close, but dates are not yet set for our move or opening day.

When will you open?

The opening day will be determined at a later date.

What will happen to the current library?

There is a public bidding process required, and the date is still to be determined since it is based on the library's move to 227 S. Seventh St.

Will this delay cost me more?

We're honoring our commitment to taxpayers to keep the cost to approximately $100 per year for the owner of a $300,000 market value home.

What kind of landscaping will you have?

We have a robust plan that includes planning approximately 70 trees, 40 shrubs, and ornamental grasses. We will also plant lilac shrubs, which were once featured prominently at the former Sixth Street school. Lilacs are also a feature at 127 James St., so planting lilacs at the new library continues the tradition.

Will Nick Bottom make the move?

Yes, and we're working on finding the perfect new home for him!

Will you have coffee?

We will offer vending options in the new library for your convenience, and we encourage you to visit the great coffee shops in town. Cocoa Bean is one block away from the new library on Seventh Street, and Graham's Coffeehouse is approximately three blocks away.

Will there be a playground?

Yes, we have an intergovernmental agreement with Geneva Park District to ensure a playground remains on the site. The park district held a public meeting in September to select the playground design for Sixth and Franklin streets. The start date for installation will be determined later. See the plans at www.genevaparks.org.

Will you have spaces for quiet activities as well as group projects in the new library?

Yes, we'll have a Quiet Reading Room on the second floor, a bright, sunny space with comfortable seating. At the other end of the second floor, we'll have the Collaboration Zone, with booths, and tables for groups or individuals where they are free to talk. We'll have additional active and passive spaces throughout the new library for you to enjoy.

Will you still have book sales?

Yes, we'll have a used book corner for our Friends of Geneva Library to sell books year-round, and they will still hold their annual sales.

What is happening at the current library?

While we do have to prepare for our move, we also have plenty of programs for all ages to enjoy. See our upcoming schedule at gpld.org/events.

How will we know what is happening with the current and new library?

We post regular updates to gpldnewbuilding.org.

The new 57,000-square-foot library building will include: enhanced collections and programs; 76 off-street parking spaces; drive-up convenience to pick up and drop off books and materials; a variety of meeting areas; exhibit space; outdoor reading spaces; and ADA compliance, making it accessible for all

The library will feature an enhanced children's area that includes: a program and craft room; an outdoor program space; play areas for young children; learning space for elementary school-aged children; middle school lounge space; developmentally appropriate collections; and learning opportunities for children from birth through eighth grade.

Teens will have their own space as well as access to more books and materials.

The community can enjoy using a variety of new spaces that offer: enhanced collections; a quiet reading and study area; an indoor/outdoor fireplace; two outdoor balconies; bookable study rooms; two meeting rooms that can hold a variety of programs; a demonstration kitchen; and a collaboration zone for group projects or solo work.

The library service will be expanded to include: a technology area where you can use or check out equipment, take classes, and create digital works; a craft room for classes and drop-in projects; and lab spaces for experimenting.