The Tale of a Crumbling Library

BELLEVUE, Ohio - May 1, 2013 - PRLog -- THE TALE OF A CRUMBLING LIBRARY

The foundation of the Bellevue Public Library in Ohio is crumbling. Plaster falls from interior walls onto adult book stacks, on the program room floor near to where children sit for Storytime, and onto staff workspaces. Keenly aware of this situation, the Library Board has worked desperately to find innovative ways to fix these problems for years. It has already authorized repair projects such as a new roof.  Patch tuck-pointing and plaster repairs have helped to maintain the building as much as the Library’s decreased budget has allowed after a levy failure and budget cuts several years ago.  However, building problems persist that cannot resolved by patching.  Necessary repairs are substantial and require more funds.  

Built as a Carnegie Library building in 1903, the building was last renovated in 1988. With a foundation that is 110 years old, a layout and carpet that are 25 years old, and bathrooms that are in disrepair, the Library is in desperate need of important restoration. The costs for these necessary improvements far exceed the Library’s budget. Additionally, the empty lot on the corner of Sandusky and Main Streets could use some beautification now that the Library’s savings plus additional grant money have been used to demolish the blighted buildings there.

Imagine an attractive corner at a major intersection that draws residents and visitors to the downtown area and the Library. This modern Library is a gathering space for the community, in a historic building situated at the heart of Bellevue. There are comfortable places for people to sit outside and freely access the Library’s Wi-fi.  An open, engaging entrance invites citizens into the Library through easy automatic doors. The entire interior of the Library is attractive, with freshly plastered and painted walls and new carpet in welcoming colors. Patrons have a more comfortable environment for reading, studying, working, and attending programs. Children have a dedicated space for Storytime and youth programs without crumbling plaster. There is more space for patrons and computers, and shelves are rearranged for patrons to find and reach desired materials more easily. Meeting rooms with more versatility are used more often by community groups. The restrooms are well-lit, functional, and pleasant. Tax dollars are used more effectively by utilizing energy-efficient heating and cooling systems and one checkout location.  A centralized checkout and information desk at the entrance is more convenient for customers and allows staff to give personalized assistance to guests, host programs, and teach classes.  

All of this is possible for only $10.69-$16.64 per year for Bellevue residents who own a house valued at $80,000. Not to mention that a nice Library would improve property values.  Other nearby towns have newly renovated Library buildings, so why not keep residents coming to Bellevue’s own updated Library?

Proceeds from May 7, 2013 bond issue will bring the Bellevue Public Library into the modern age, while preserving it for future generations in historic downtown Bellevue!

CONTACT:          Doug Klein, President

         Board of Trustees, Bellevue Public Library

         419-483-4769