Library Building Project

A Proud Past -- A Progressive Future:
Top Ten Reasons a New Library is Needed 
         Published in the BJ's Progress Edition  10/8/05

The Independence Public Library is in the planning stages of a new facility.  The City Council is supportive of the project, having passed a resolution of support and committed $700,000 to kick-off the fundraising!  The site of the new library will be west of the Lee Mansion on First Street East.  The building committee, consisting of a cross-section of the community, is working with Gardner Architecture.  The process of planning, raising money, and building a public building is complicated and time-intensive.  The plan is to start fundraising at the beginning of 2006 and to be in the new location by the end of 2007. 

The top ten reasons why the community of Independence needs a new library, or what you could do in a new library that you can’t do now:

1.  Read and Relax
Most library patrons do not view the library as a place to read and relax.  Instead, they get and go.  The library offers two comfortable chairs…so you can’t plan on an available spot.  In a new library with adequate space, people will have the opportunity to find a quiet, comfortable place to enjoy the day.  Think of it as the community’s living room!   

2.  Tutor, Do Homework, or Take a Test
Areas where a person can work quietly on their own or with a few others is needed in a library.  Small study rooms in the new facility will provide such areas.  Patrons could do homework, work on a group project, take a test, or tutor in these areas.

3.  Have a Space of Your Own (Young Adults)
The extent of the current young adult section is one bookshelf in the middle of the picture book section.  Teenagers will have a place of their own in the new library…a spot with books, magazines, and comfortable seating.  A place where they can read, talk, and hang out in a safe environment. 

4.  Meet at the Library
Library committees have met in twelve different locations because finding a meeting place can be such a challenge.  In the new library, the program room will be available for meetings when it is not being used for library programs.  So, the Cub Scouts, city departments, book groups, arts/crafts clubs, recreational or social clubs, and many others could meet in the library.

5.  Access Additional Computers
We frequently turn people away when they need to use a computer because all computers are being used.  Additional computers and a different layout will provide more access for everyone.

6.  Attend Programs in the Library
Few library programs are held in the library.  You can probably guess why…space!  With the other needed resources, opportunities like summer reading programs, author visits, indoor movie nights, book group discussions, travel programs, art displays, and many others opportunities will be possible within the library. 

7.  Browse the Complete Collection of Books
You haven’t been allowed to get a book or to browse the shelves on the second floor.  The reasons are lack of space on the first floor and a second floor that is closed.  Materials will be easily browsed and accessible when you come to the new library.

8.  Find Resources Easily
In a library of adequate size for a city of 6000, you will be able to find what you need more easily.  There will be space on the shelves so that you can pull out one book without getting three, signage that makes it easier to find the area and section you want, and displays for books on certain topics pertaining to a current event or holiday.  

9.  Be Inspired to Learn
Children will have a space where they can sit comfortably during reading or art activities without disrupting others in the children’s area.  Children could express themselves, reach all the materials, and have some wiggle room.  The new children’s area will help families provide positive experiences for their children that will aid in their education!

10.  Use the Library as a Destination…
The public library can be the community’s living room.  There will be something for everyone.  Bring your family and/or your friends…while you go to a book discussion group, Jennifer can be studying with friends, Tom can be reading the paper, Matt can be using the Internet, Kelly can be doing research, and Lucy can be browsing audiobooks.  Spend some time at the library…a place to learn, relax, socialize, find information, and check out the latest bestseller.

Other Building Project Articles:
Donation Form
Fundraising Event - SPELLBOUND!
Library Campaign Passes $2.5 Million
A Proud Past...A Progressive Future
Library Campaign Awarded CAT Grant!
How Can I Help the Library Reach Goal?
Answers to Capital Campaign Questions
Frequently Asked Questions and Thoughts about the New Library
Building Plans Detailed
Elevations and Floor Plan
Campaign Chair Selected
Site and Architect
Children's Area
Top 10 Reasons a New Public Library is Needed
Young Adult Area

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