In a media release issued on June 20, 2024, the Glencoe Public Library Board of Trustees announces the selection of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill to create a master space plan.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
about the Glencoe Public Library Master Space Plan
Why is the library doing a master space plan?
The building opened to the community in 1941 and has structural issues consistent with its age. To address these issues and to consider additional enhancements to a facility that is beloved by Glencoe residents, the library board embarked on a process to create a master space plan.
What is involved in creating a master space plan?
In 2022, the library board and the library’s management team conducted a community survey, focus groups, and public meetings to collect feedback about the library. In April 2023, the library board adopted a five-year strategic plan highlighted by a goal of improving the facilities. The input of Glencoe residents, library trustees and staff, and key community stakeholders is integral to master space planning.
Why did the library board select Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) to do the master space plan?
SOM’s comprehensive services and reputation for excellence were primary factors in its selection, as was its interest in bringing a valued public space in line with current and future needs.
How extensive will the renovation be?
The library board has not yet determined the scope of a potential renovation. The board issued a Request for Qualifications for Architectural Services (RFQ) in February 2024 seeking planning, design, and cost estimates for a three-tiered plan that will respond to different budget scenarios:
- a minimum budget that sees a renovation to improve the layout and use of the lower level and provides for an immediate response to capital repair and maintenance costs for 2022-2026 as identified in a 2021 capital needs assessment;
- a moderate budget that achieves the minimum budget items, renovates the main and second floors and the mezzanine, and provides for a planned response to the anticipated capital repair and maintenance costs for 2027-2031 as identified in the 2021 capital needs assessment; and
- an ideal budget, which would achieve the minimum and moderate budget items and add to the existing building.
How will the library renovation be paid for?
The library board will investigate and consider several funding options for a potential renovation, including the library’s reserves, a loan, and fundraising. It is not the board’s present intention to go to referendum. Once a master space plan has been approved by the board with feedback from the community, the board will determine what needs to be done to fund a renovation.
When will the renovation start and how long will it take?
The library board has not yet established a timeline for construction as no renovation plan has been approved.
How will the library serve the community during the renovation?
The ideal is that the library will remain open during a renovation project. If necessary, the library staff will utilize services and procedures adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic such as curbside and homebound deliveries, remote ready reference, and virtual programming to ensure public access to service and materials.
The Request for Qualifications for Architectural Services, issued in February 2024, sought responses from firms interested in working with the library board on a master space plan that will include planning, design, and cost estimates to address current and future needs.
