Library expansion and renovation

In November, 2021, the Bloomington City Council will vote on the proposed expansion and renovation of the Bloomington Public Library in downtown Bloomington. This expansion would add 25,541 square feet to the library footprint and renovate another 57,394 square feet. Additions include a drive up window, 3 meeting rooms, 2 children’s programming rooms, group study rooms, and a computer lab. For project details, including an architectural drawing of the floor plan, see the document presented by the Library director at the September 20 meeting. 

The project would cost almost $20.8 million, with an additional $2 million for a parking deck. The City Council would have to approve a bond measure to fund its share of the project over a 20-year period.  A family in a $165,000 home would expect to pay an additional $32.05 per year for the library and parking deck. 

Project timeline: 

• November, 2021: Bond authorization

• January/February, 2022: Release request for bids

• April, 2022: Begin construction

• August, 2023: Projected completion

I would like to hear your thoughts on the proposed expansion and renovation of the library. Please reach out to let me hear your perspective.