At its June 22 meeting, the Board approved a Facilities Improvement Project to add the square footage necessary to enhance and expand services requested by patrons. The project includes the addition of a large two-story wing on the north side of the Harnish building and renovating the interior of the Eastgate building.
The reconfiguration of the Library’s interior space will incorporate new meeting/study spaces, a computer classroom at Harnish, and interactive play areas for children. We will also develop a Maker Space at Harnish, which will allow patrons of all ages to hone their technical skills – such as digital/graphic design, audio/video production, and coding – and increase the potential for college and career success. A Maker Space will include a collaborative space for our popular crafting programs and related tools, such as sewing machines, a vinyl cutter, and crafting materials. To make room for these new spaces, we will use the square footage gained by trimming our book collection in response to reduced demand for print materials and increased demand for e-materials.
The $7.4 million figure for this plan includes the building addition at the Main Library, critical overdue capital improvements at both buildings, and computer and technology equipment. The plan requires AAPLD to borrow $2 to $3 million, with the balance drawn from special reserve funds set aside through the careful financial management and prudent decision making on the part of the Board over the last 12 years.
The first step: an engineering study and survey of the Harnish site; we hope to break ground by September 2017. We are embarking on an exciting journey that will result in improved facilities so we can meet patrons even better.
Request for Qualifications (RFQ)
The Algonquin Area Public Library is soliciting proposals from construction firms to provide “construction management” services for the delivery of an expansion and renovation of the District’s current facilities. Firms with relevant construction management experience are encouraged to apply. Consideration will be limited to firms that have demonstrated successful experience in the provision of “construction management” services of a similar scope for a public library or another public sector owner. Deadline for submittals: August 16, 2016, 4:30 p.m. at the Library District’s Administration Office. Access the complete RFQ.