Planning for the Library's Future
The Library Story
Twenty years of growth and development
Our Library was designed almost 20 years ago. Since then our island population has grown by 50%, we've nearly doubled annual checkouts, doubled the size of the collection, and nearly tripled the number of Library visits. The original design of the Library didn't anticipate the Internet, public use computers, and wireless access, important and popular services today. We've grown substantially - and we're providing new services. (See Growth)
Is the Library building reaching its limits?
By the end of 2010, practical space limits will make it impossible to continue to grow the collection within the confines of the current building. Today the Library is often crowded; sometimes without an open seat and the noise level has increased. At the same time, more people than ever seek and need access to Library resources.
Do we need more space?
Informal observation suggests the Library needs more space for collection and people. Surveys show high satisfaction with the Library but lower with available space. In 2008 a citizens committee recommended pursuing Library expansion. The Board agrees we need to consider expansion. (see Committee & Survey)
Alternatives to expanding the building?
Couldn't the Library build a balcony or use off site storage? Couldn't we just live with limitations? The Board considers alternatives unsatisfactory.(See Alternatives)
How would a building expansion be financed?
Expanding the Library would require two kinds of funding: a one -time cost for construction and a second, ongoing cost for new, expansion-related operating expenses. (See Costs)
The plan under consideration calls for financing construction with non-tax dollars, especially donations. The Library is actively seeking contributions to its capital fund. To donate, contact Phil Heikkinen, Library Director at 360 376-4985 or pheikkinen@orcaslibrary.org.
However, new ongoing operating costs resulting from a larger building would require raising taxes by 2 cents per thousand dollars of assessed valuation. On a $500,000 home that would be $10 per year - on an ongoing basis. This tax increase would be subject to approval by Orcas voters. (See Tax)
What would an expansion look like?
About 3500 square feet would be added to the current building, to the northwest, about doubling the available public space. Floor space for collection shelving would double, providing 15 years of collection expansion. The children's area would grow 40%% and also serve as a special events area. Young adults would have their own area, a quiet reading area would be provided, additional restrooms added, small group study rooms created, and an office for the children's librarian connected to the children's area. (See Plans and see Benefits
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Contacts, Prospectus, Presentations, Floor Plans Last update: 4/16/09
Email us: future@orcaslibrary.org
Comments: post your comments here
To donate to the Orcas Library Capital Fund, contact Phil Heikkinen, Library Director at 360 376-4985 or pheikkinen@orcaslibrary.org.
Prospectus - Request for Donations to Capital Fund (4/16/09)
Presentation Slide Show (3/8/09)
Presentation Handout (2/21/09)
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