Officials Hope To Open New Geneva Library In November

GENEVA, IL — Construction continues on the new Geneva Public Library at 227 South Seventh Street, and according to the Daily Herald, it's large size has people asking what's being built or if there's a need for a library bigger than the current one on James Street. According to the news report, it was important to the library officials that neighbors would provide feedback on plans for the new building, in addition to those who reside closet to the site understood how the neighborhood landscape would change.

"We did work with neighbors and the community to establish square footage," library spokesperson Paula Krapf said, according to the Daily Herald, adding that Krapf said plans for a 64,000 square-foot library were reviewed by neighbors after the property was purchased. The Daily Herald reported Krapf also said the feedback made showed officials they needed to trim back the presented size to the current 57,000 feet.

The library has hopes for a November opening date.

More: Walls Go Up On New Geneva Public Library

According to Geneva Public Library's Patch report, Library officials held a groundbreaking ceremony in July 2018, and in August, IHC Construction Companies of Elgin began work on the new library.

The 57,000-square-foot building will have 76 off-street parking spaces, a drive-up window, a variety of meeting areas, a community art gallery, and outdoor reading spaces.

The library will feature an enhanced children's area with developmentally appropriate collections, play areas, and learning opportunities for children from birth through eighth grade. Teens and adults will have access to a variety of library materials and enjoy spending time in the quiet reading and study spaces.

Additionally, library service will be expanded to include new opportunities for collaborating, using technology, and experimenting in lab spaces. Residents approved a $21.8 million building bond for the new library in an April 2017 referendum. The Geneva Plan Commission and Geneva City Council unanimously approved the new library plans following public hearings held in 2018, according to Geneva Public Library

Visit gpldnewbuilding.org for a comprehensive overview of the plans for the new library and regular updates on progress.