Library Expansion Plans
In 2023, taxpayers approved a 1.2 Mill Levy increase to fund the construction and ongoing operating costs of a larger library. The existing facility was constructed with the intent of hosting a 4300 sq ft second floor. Work is in progress to design the renovation of the first floor and the spaces of the second floor.
Goals for the Project
The following goals were determined based on feedback from community surveys, stakeholder interviews, user statistics and patterns, staff feedback, and Board of Trustee guidance.
SERVICE AND PROGRAM GOALS
- Create more interactive learning and engagement opportunities for youth of all ages.
- Support families and educators’ aspirations for youth development.
- Accommodate more books and materials for loan.
- Increase spaces and resources for community use.
INFRASTRUCTURE GOALS
- Expand access to Library resources, including parking lot expansion.
- Reduce environmental impact and adopt energy efficient systems.
- Design for flexible use and future growth.
Timeline
Alternative Library Space
During construction, the Library will need to vacate the building. Our plan is to host the majority of our services in a scaled model at an alternative site, yet to be determined. At a minimum, patrons will be able to pick up holds, browse a smaller collection consisting of mostly new books, and return items. Our ebook and audiobook budget will be expanded to accommodate more users. Our temporary space will also host frequently used resources: copier, printer, quick use computer stations. Our classes and events will be limited during construction and may need to be held at other sites. More information will be posted once plans develop.
Expansion Project Donors:
The Boettcher Foundation, $35,000
The Robert Hoag Rawlings Foundation, $25,000
To contribute to the expansion project, please contact Director Cecilia LaFrance at clafrance@buenavistalibrary.org.
Design Team
Architects: F&M, Max McCloskey, project manager
Owner’s Rep: Artaic Group, Sarah Lara, principal and project lead
Contractors: JK Mechanical (Buena Vista), The Engineering Loft (Buena Vista), Hachmann Engineering (Buena Vista), Architectural Services (Salida), 3 Rocks (Buena Vista), Front Range Electrical, Planning Solutions, Wave Engineering
Contract Manager/General Contractor: Adena Corporation