Bethlehem library bond worth read
To the Editor,
I support the Bethlehem Public Library and it’s time to invest in its future.
The Library Board has been planning for significant improvements to the library building for almost a decade. Throughout this time the Board has ensured that the library’s budget is appropriately managed and that its collections, programs, and community offerings continue to grow. Unfortunately, the pandemic both paused the planning and led to some changes in how the Board moved forward.
For close to 20 years, my family has and continues to be regular patrons of the library. We have grown with its expanding resources and programming, use it as a frequent study space and utilize the community rooms for the different groups we have been a part of. It is imperative that this resource continues to grow for future generations. As with an aging house, maintenance and improvements are an investment, but one that brings benefits for years to come.
It was with careful thought, research, and debate that the Board approved a project cost in the amount of $36.9 million. This is the first bond the library has brought to vote in more than 20 years, and its approval would mark the first significant construction on the Library building since it was built in 1973. As a result of other pressures, the bond vote could not take place with the November elections and waiting to hold the election in May, to coincide with the school budget vote, would only escalate costs.
The Board’s thoughtfully considered the following in this process:
• The health, safety and accessibility of Library patrons and the community
• The longevity of the building and its continuation as a pillar within our community.
• Flexibility and multi-purpose use of space so that the building can evolve as Library services evolve
• Sustainability and environmental impact
One of the most important aspects of the project is that about 60% of the total bond amount is intended to fund necessary repairs and maintenance to the existing infrastructure. These repairs are needed regardless of any new build projects. This part of the bond will provide for:
• Structural improvements to reinforce building walls and foundation
• Replacement of the original 50-year-old boiler
• Updated security and fire prevention systems
• A redesign of the parking lot based on car and foot traffic patterns and accessibility concerns
The final 40% of the bond cost will go toward new features. Based on feedback from the public and staff, and a mindset toward the future, those features will include:
• Expanded children’s space for additional programming
• A dedicated teen space for study and group project
• Expanded outdoor programming and patron space
• More study rooms
• Multi-purpose space for Library programs and community use
You can view the full proposed plan, as well as documents detailing the Board’s process at bethpl.org/building-project-updates/.
These projects are needed investments in the future of our community, and I hope you will join me in supporting this endeavor.
Adrienne V. Mazeau
Delmar
