After many years of observation, conversation, and planning, the Board of Trustees has decided to update the Forest Park Public Library.
The library will undergo a redesign and renovation in 2019 as the centerpiece of its 2016-2019 Strategic Plan. With plans to reorganize the space within its current building space, the new environment will reflect the changing needs of the Forest Park community.
“The current building has gotten a lot of use over the past 23 years,” said Karen Childs, Library Board of Trustees President. “We are excited about making changes to continue to meet the needs of our community.”
Library use remains strong in Forest Park, but how people are using the library is changing. Demand for technology, meeting spaces, and workshops and classes continues to increase.
“The library is not just a place that houses books but serves as a place for people to study, gather, use resources and technology, and connect with their community,” said Pilar Shaker, Library Director. “This project is in response to community input as well as continuing to meet the library’s mission of providing education, entertainment, and empowerment to Forest Park.”
The project will be funded through existing capital savings with no new taxes or debt, or a reduction in services.
“Over the past five years, the Board has been contemplating updating the library,” Childs said. “During this time, we were able to save funds to put towards renovation without seeking additional funding from taxpayers.”
The selection process for a Construction Manager to represent the library during the renovation will begin in mid-Fall. Once a Construction Manager has been selected, more complete plans will be shared with the public and a public information session will be held.
For more information about the library’s renovation plans and to keep up-to-date on progress, visit fppl.org or email askus@fppl.org.