We have included below some of the common questions associated with the expansion. Please feel free to contact us at any time with other questions that you might have.

It will be wonderful to have the benefits offered through this project. How do the Library Trustees see this positively impacting our community, aside from how individual residents will benefit?
In New York State, a community is often measured by the quality of its public services, especially its schools and libraries. A public library of the caliber we will realize certainly sends a strong message about our community's commitment to the education of our children and to lifelong learning. It reflects a value system that includes the widest possible access to information services for personal and group advancement. It contributes to robust property values and our vibrant downtown. It supports many local and regional agencies that provide meaningful programs and services.

I’m excited about how the library is going to expand and improve, but will the construction shut down services?
Library services will be maintained throughout the construction period, but that isn’t to say there won’t be inconveniences and limitations.  Construction is always a diffuclt proposition, particularly for a public service agency.  However, the project phasing allows for the preservation of services through the construction phase.

How will the phasing work?
The first of the two major phases calls for construction of the new 15,000 square foot addition, which will house the New Children’s Library, the new Reference Area, the new Community Meeting Room, and assorted smaller spaces.  During this phase, library services will continue to be offered in the current facility.  Once this addition is complete, services will be switched to the new addition while the current facility is renovated. The total construction schedule is estimated to be completed in the spring of 2010.

Should I have any concerns about the cost of this construction project and any ongoing operating expenses?
The library’s Board of Trustees and staff want taxpayers to feel that their annual investment in library services are utilized in a prudent and cost-effective manner.  The Board of Trustees began deliberately building a budget expenditure for debt service seven years ago to address the debt service that this project will require.  Voters approved this appropriation through their support of each of our annual budgets since that time.  As far as the annual operating budget goes, a larger library will certainly require a greater investment for utilities and maintenance, along with a modest increase in professional staff to deliver services and supervise a larger facility.  While taxpayers should be aware of these costs, they will only provide minimal impacts to your total library tax, which is itself only a small part of your total tax bill. 

How will the Board of Trustees communicate the progress of construction?
Residents should first look to our library website for regular updates on the construction project, including notices of temporary service disruptions.  Information will also be provided in regular library newsletters, through our local media, and through announcements that can be found at the library.

Please do not hesitate to direct your questions about the expansion to Bonnie Elder Yassky of the Development Department, at (845)358-0734 or email byassky@nyacklibrary.org.