Board OKs Referendum Requesting $21.8 Million for New Library in Geneva

The Geneva Library Board of Trustees voted Thursday to place a bond question on the April 2017 ballot, which will ask voters to approve issuing $21.8 million in 20-year bonds to pay for a new library at 210 S. 6th St. in Geneva.

The cost includes site preparation, building construction costs, architectural design fees, construction management fees, costs associated with the bond issue, technology infrastructure, and furnishings for he new building, according to a news release from the Geneva Library Board. The library will use $300,000 from existing reserves, and the remainder of the cost will be paid for by issuing $21.8 million in bonds with a maximum maturity of 20 years.

If approved by voters, the owner of a $300,000 home will pay about $98 to $99 more per year in taxes.

“We are excited to have this opportunity to provide our community with a facility that will provide expanded Library service for all ages and stages of life,” said Board President Robert Shiffler. “Our community has asked us to provide additional services and resources that we can’t offer in our current facility. These include a computer/technology lab, spaces to create and learn new skills like robotics, book publishing, cooking, and crafts, imaginative play space, parent networking opportunities, meeting, study and function rooms – and on-site parking."

Now the library board will continue with the schematic design process that it began several months ago, according to a news release. The intent of schematic design is to provide preliminary building concepts, a rough site plan and floorplans, and cost estimates. Final design will not occur until after the public has approved financing a new building.

In addition, the Board will begin an information campaign to notify the community about the April 4, 2017 referendum and the opportunities afforded to the community through expanded library services, by meeting with local boards, committees, service groups, PTOs, and more to share information and answer questions.

To learn more about the project and stay up to date, please visit the library's website devoted to the building project at www.gpldnewbuilding.org. To get involved, contact Board@gpld.org.