What is Happening Now?
Our goal is to provide a library that is safe, healthy, and convenient for the community. We do our best to optimize the space we have, and to continue maintaining our facility so it functions optimally. At times we make modifications to our facility to better serve the community.
Normal Public Library is planning renovations that include asbestos abatement of the 1973 portion of the facility, as well as updates to wall coverings, lighting, ceilings, floors, ductwork, and the network.
We want to keep you informed during this process. Our intention is to continue providing services throughout the duration of the project. Together, we can ensure the library continues to be a welcoming, dynamic, and resourceful space for all—wherever its services are provided and located.
The need for asbestos abatement is driving this project. The library cannot update flooring, lighting, etc. until the asbestos is removed. Crucial network, wireless, and lighting systems require updates to continue serving the community. Such updates are prevented by the presence of the asbestos-containing materials. After the abatement is complete, additional renovations will update the facility.
This project will be funded from several community sources including library reserve funding, generous support from Normal Public Library Foundation, and potential state grants and debt service.
The library’s building at 206 W. College Ave. will be closed to the public beginning at 5 pm on Saturday, March 30, and will remain closed for the project's duration. Broeren Russo Builders, Inc. will begin work on the building as early as April 8, with an anticipated completion in 10–12 months. As with any construction project, the timeline may change as the work progresses.
To ensure uninterrupted access to library collections and services, a temporary branch library will begin operating on Monday, April 1, in the former Busey Bank location at 201 W. College Ave., directly across the street from the current building. Planned services at the temporary branch will include curbside hold pickup through the first drive-thru lane of the building, a browsing collection of materials available for checkout, public computing, printing, copying, and faxing services. Hold pickup will be available on April 1, and other services will be added throughout the first weeks of April as staff transition from our building to our temporary branch. Staff will be available to assist community members in accessing library services, and the vast majority of the library’s collection will remain available by request.
Library programs, including regular storytimes, book clubs, take and makes, and others will continue throughout the length of the project at various off-site locations. The library’s online calendar will list the location of each program and staff will be available by phone, email, and in person at 201 W. College to help direct community members to those locations.
Learn specifics about the project through notifications for project-related news. Stay informed on our website, social media, or via the Town of Normal Forum. As always, library staff welcomes in-person visits, emails, and phone calls.
Here are the renderings provided by Studio GC Architecture & Interiors:
Main Circulation Area
Café Area
Business Area
Outside the Teen Area
Teen Area
Teen Area
Kids' Area
Kids' Circulation Area
Maker Space
Discovery Room
Basement
Community Room
Further Information
- Conceptual Site Plan (2013)
This plan is not related to any specific site. - Minimum Site Requirements for a New Facility
Board of Trustees, July 2015 - Uptown 2.0 Plan
- Comparative Site Analysis (2014)
Temporary Branch
201 W. College Ave.
Located across the street from the current building. Services will include curbside hold pickup through the first drive-thru lane of the building, a browsing collection of materials available for checkout, public computing, printing, copying, and faxing services.