The Ann Arbor District Library Board has voted to tear down the main library downtown and build a new one in its place.
Recently the Library posted a survey online with over 6,000 people responding. The survey asked how space at the library should be allocated, and about a proposed underground parking structure beneath the current surface lot next to the library.
More than half of those who responded to the survey, said Ann Arbor needed a renovated or new downtown library. Around 14 percent said they did not agree a new or renovated library is needed.
The 50-year-old building has been renovated twice already with the latest being in 1990.
The current building also does not comply with Americans with Disability Act (ADA) standards
, although accomodations had been accomplished. This will be far better.
Ann Arbor is environmentally conscience, tearing down the older 343 S. 5th Street building is not surprising as the survey results indicated most Ann Arbor residents were in favor of doing so. With the community speaking the library board voted to move forward with the project.
The current cost is projected at 71M, and will include a new auditorium to seat 400, which is desperately needed as I have attended, with standing room only several events there. It is projected the renovation will be paid for with bonds, fund raising and a tax increase.
The new building will increase the square footage by 47% to over 160,000 S.F. and is designed to be four stories.
The Ann Arbor District Library web site can be found here.
The Ann Arbor Main Library is located at:
343 S. 5th Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Missy at MissyCaulk.com