tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45763025698636145892024-03-06T14:02:34.269-06:00From the Library Director's DeskJulie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.comBlogger289125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-17336237322639957522016-07-05T11:20:00.000-05:002016-07-05T11:20:14.706-05:00Leaving the Library in Capable Hands<div class="MsoNormal">
I am pleased to announce that the Plainfield Library’s Board
of Trustees decided in June to name Assistant Library Director Lisa Pappas to the
position of Interim Library Director for one year. This decision will provide
consistent leadership for the Library through planning for a possible April
2017 referendum. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Lisa Pappas joined the Plainfield Library staff in October
2002 as the Head of Adult Services. One of her first projects was to overhaul
the Library’s collection, which had not been weeded in more than a decade. She
stepped into the newly-created Assistant Library Director position in 2007. As
Assistant Director, her primary job was overseeing day-to-day operations of the
Library. Second in command, she acted as the administrator in the absence of
the Library Director, providing her with experience in the role. A native of
Naperville, Lisa understands the continued impact of the explosive growth of
the 2000s on the area and the Library. Lisa has also worked in public libraries
in Aurora, West Chicago, Warrenville, and Oak Brook.</div>
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Lisa Pappas’ first day as Interim Library Director is July
15. My final day as Library Director is July 14. I feel confident leaving the
Library in Lisa’s capable hands.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-14190900526310126392016-04-26T07:00:00.000-05:002016-04-26T07:00:17.413-05:00Make the Most of Your Investment in the LibraryWho doesn't like a big return on an investment? Your investment of tax dollars in the library always nets a great return but <a href="http://www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/whatsnew-details.aspx?ID=761" target="_blank">Money Smart Week</a> offers more than ever. From online classes with Morningstar Investments to a free Shred Day event, the Library can help you maximize that return with Money Smart Week - and all of the other resources and services your Library offers!<br />
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In addition to Money Smart Week events this week, you can:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>drop in for tech help</li>
<li>practice English as a Second Language with grammar, conversation and reading clubs</li>
<li>learn more about newspaper resources for genealogy research</li>
<li>get job search support at the Workforce Services Division of Will County Mobile Workforce Center</li>
<li>learn how to get started on Pinterest</li>
<li>knit or crochet with new friends</li>
<li>find the latest apps and share your favorites</li>
<li>improve your skills on Microsoft Word </li>
<li>meet an inspirational author</li>
</ul>
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And that's just the <a href="http://il.evanced.info/plainfield/evanced/eventcalendar.asp" target="_blank">events for adults</a>! The amount of return on your investment in the Library is up to you.</div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-12255912198808193242016-04-12T15:32:00.002-05:002016-04-12T15:32:54.395-05:00National Library Week Recognition by Congressman Foster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today, to commemorate National Library Week, Congressman Bill Foster spoke on the House floor about how libraries are strengthening and serving our communities.</div>
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Full text:<br />
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<i>Thank you Mr. Speaker.</i><br />
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<i>I rise today to commemorate National Library Week – and to celebrate how local libraries continue to be a vital resource in communities across this nation.</i><br />
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<i>Libraries have evolved beyond buildings of quiet study into engaging community centers – where people can gather to collaborate on projects, children can come to participate in educational activities, and job-seekers can use as a resource for help finding connections with employers.</i><br />
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<i>National Library Week is a perfect opportunity to highlight the services being provided in libraries, by librarians and staff focused on creating environments where people can not only find the information they need – but use that information to better themselves and their communities.</i><br />
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<i>Counting both public and private, there are nearly 120,000 libraries across the United States, which together employ more than 350,000 people, and provide services to millions of Americans each year.</i><br />
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<i>In my district, I’ve seen this transformation taking place – where access to the latest technologies like 3D printers and laser cutters can often be found at the local library.</i><br />
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<i>Libraries across this country continue to serve as centers of education, research, and community involvement.</i><br />
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<i>Thank you to the librarians and staff who strive to make the local library a gathering place for everyone – the work you are doing is strengthening this country and making our neighborhoods better places to live.</i><br />
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<i>Thank you, and I yield back.</i>Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-79160014973919968352016-03-25T07:00:00.000-05:002016-03-25T07:00:15.407-05:00Three Public Meetings AddedPublic meetings will be held in early April to garner feedback for the Plainfield Public Library District’s Board of Trustees as they plan for the Library’s future. In addition to four open house events to be held at the Library, three open forum events at other locations will provide residents with an opportunity to express their opinions and priorities for the Library’s next steps.<br />
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The three public meetings will be held:<br />
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Tuesday, April 5<br />
7:00 to 8:00 PM<br />
Plainfield Township<br />
22525 W. Lockport Street<br />
Plainfield, IL 60544<br />
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Wednesday, April 6<br />
7:00 to 8:00 PM<br />
Wheatland Township<br />
4232 Tower Court<br />
Naperville, IL 60564<br />
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Saturday, April 9<br />
10:00 to 11:00 AM (following Coffee with the Superintendent)<br />
Plainfield School District 202<br />
Administrative Center<br />
15732 Howard Street<br />
Plainfield IL 60544<br />
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Along with the <a href="http://plainfieldlibrarydirector.blogspot.com/2016/03/tell-us-your-priorities-at-open-houses.html" target="_blank">four open houses</a> planned for the following week in the Library, these public meetings provide opportunities for our concerned citizens to talk face-to-face with Library Trustees and staff about next steps in planning future library services.<br />
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To provide your feedback online, go to <a href="http://tinyurl.com/ppldfeedback">http://tinyurl.com/ppldfeedback</a><br />
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Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-62494072371333723702016-03-22T10:17:00.000-05:002016-03-22T10:17:23.108-05:00Tell Us Your Priorities at Open HousesLike the National Library Week open house events that kicked off the public portion of the Library's building planning last year, all are invited to tell us what you think, find out more about library services and programs, and share your priorities for library services.<br />
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These four open house, drop-in events provide everyone with an opportunity to express opinions and priorities for the Library’s next steps in providing facilities and services. Based on the “Libraries Transform” theme for National Library Week, the open houses also offer the opportunity to discover how the Library can help you grow and change through online learning, job and career services, ESL clubs, book discussion groups, technology training and much more. Join us in the Library's Small Meeting Room on:<br />
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•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Monday, April 11, 2:00 to 4:00 PM<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Wednesday, April 13, 7:00 to 8:30 PM<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Friday, April 15, 9:30 to 11:30 AM<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Saturday, April 16, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM<br />
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Drop in to meet the staff, learn about how we can help you and celebrate the wealth of opportunity you can find at your Library. Refreshments will be served, plus prizes and a drawing for a Kindle eReader.<br />
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Additional off-site public meetings are being planned. Updates will be posted as information is released.<br />
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<br />Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-86318469649203667232016-03-10T16:55:00.001-06:002016-03-11T09:30:31.396-06:00Get the Facts on Library Referendum<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Emails, social media commentary, robocalls – there’s a lot
of misleading and inaccurate information being spread about the Library’s
referenda on the March 15 ballot.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For example, the robocalls are being made to voters in the Plainfield
Public Library District by Americans for Prosperity, a national conservative
political action group. The calls reportedly state a cost of $2,600 for the
average homeowner over the life of the $39 million building bonds in the ballot
question. This estimated cost assumes that the value of property within the Plainfield
Public Library District remains the same for 20 years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But here at the Library, helping people access accurate
information is a critical part of what we do. For that reason, the planning
process for the referenda included 22 public meetings over 8 months, a
telephone survey and online feedback surveys. Every step of the process was
documented on the <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx" target="_blank">Building & Expansion Planning web page</a>, with supporting
documentation available. This blog also contains posts that address many common
questions – and those sources of misinformation. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edited to add a little more information on the true estimated cost:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The $39 million building bond portion will be paid off in 20 years and automatically be removed from your tax bill. About $12 of the estimated $15 per month increase to the average home ($300,000) is the bond amount. The bond repayment tax rate generally decreases over time as new property is annexed or develops, spreading the fixed payment amount over a larger tax base. The bond rate on the existing Library was 0.1657 in its first year, but dropped to 0.0094 by the final (20th) year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The funds generated by a limiting rate increase will be used to operate the new Library building. It’s a 19% increase in operating funds for a building nearly triple the size of the current building. After the one year specified in the question, the Library’s tax rate will be subject to the tax cap again, with the new base limiting rate. About $3 of the estimated $15 per month increase to the average home ($300,000) is the limiting rate increase amount.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't forget that for every $1 invested in the Library, the community receives <a href="http://plainfieldlibrarydirector.blogspot.com/2016/03/roi-for-library-tax-dollars-shows-value.html" target="_blank">$5.93 in services</a> today!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As always, you can call, chat, message, email, text or stop by the Library to get your questions answered!</span><br />
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Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-61255684558231567462016-03-09T08:19:00.003-06:002016-03-09T08:19:28.512-06:00New Plainfield Library, Yes or No<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">The
following response is based on a letter to the editor in the Times Weekly,
posing nine questions about the Library’s proposed expansion. The text in<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">red</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">is the unedited letter
as found here: <a href="http://thetimesweekly.com/news/2016/mar/02/new-plainfield-library-yes-or-no/">http://thetimesweekly.com/news/2016/mar/02/new-plainfield-library-yes-or-no/</a>
The text in black is answers to questions, clarifications and context.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1) Has the Plainfield
School District ever been contacted to avoid a duplication of services? Would
it not be possible for one taxing body to work along with another taxing body
to provide a common library service, instructors, meeting areas, share
equipment and parking during the entire year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">The Library
supports early literacy development before children are of school age, extends
learning beyond the school day and helps hold kids at grade level over the
summer when school is not in session:
<a href="http://plainfieldlibrarydirector.blogspot.com/2016/03/14-critical-public-library-services.html" target="_blank">http://plainfieldlibrarydirector.blogspot.com/2016/03/14-critical-public-library-services.html </a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: 13.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2) What are the actual
recorded numbers of citizens (adults & children) using the current
facility, busiest months, days and time during the day?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">Here is the summary of
use in FY2015: </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/board/2015%20Annual%20Report%20Summary.pdf </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">and the Citizens Information Center where the Board packets, including monthly
statistics, are posted regularly: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/citizens-information-center.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/citizens-information-center.aspx</a>
What cannot be quantified is h</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">ow many don’t
bother to come because they know there will be nowhere to study quietly, how
many didn’t get to register for the program because it was full and how many
use neighboring library’s facilities because their own does not meet their
needs.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3) Why was this
particular very confined location chosen where future expansion is limited?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">Question #2
on the FAQ page has your answer: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-faq.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-faq.aspx</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"The current site is located very near the geographic center of the Library District. The Library Board of Trustees decided early in the planning process to pursue only single site options due to the cost of operating two facilities. An alternate site was considered. Public meetings and online surveys showed overwhelming support for the Library to remain at its current location. Reasons cited by participants in public meetings included its being an anchor to the downtown and convenience of access. See <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/15_0611_PPL%20Public%20Presentation.pdf">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/15_0611_PPL%20Public%20Presentation.pdf</a> "</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">4) When was the
decision made to build new rather than add to and remodel?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">At the July
2015 Library Board Meeting, which was open to the public in addition to the two
public planning meetings that month. Scroll down to the section Summary of Feedback
Presentation - July Board Meeting on the Building and Expansion Planning web
page: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">5) What are the results
of the traffic study (current & projected), parking spaces available for
employees, visitors, maintenance staff, groups (seniors) arriving by bus and
ease of entry for emergency vehicles?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">There was not
a traffic study per se, but concerns about the safety of access, inclusion of a
service drive, the ability to circumnavigate the parking without going onto
Route 59 are referenced throughout the public meeting summaries. In particular,
Renovation Concept 3 in the July presentation shows these concerns in relation
to new construction vs. adding on. <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/2015-07-15%20Board%20meeting%20presentation%20and%20summary.pdf">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/2015-07-15%20Board%20meeting%20presentation%20and%20summary.pdf</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">6) Will area
contractors be considered to bid on this project?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Final design
and specifications will not begin until after a successful referendum and a
delivery method (construction management, general contractor) has not yet been
determined by the Board of Trustees. The Library Board of Trustees is bound by
state law in the procurement of construction services and many area contractors
may qualify.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">7) Upon completion how
many additional good full time jobs will this project create for the people of
Plainfield?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We're
estimating 5-6 full time positions and additional part time positions. The
final determination of hiring needs will depend on many factors including
qualified applicants from within, changes to existing positions, final design
and services to be added. For example, if the digital media lab is a separate
room from the public use computers area, it will be staffed differently than if
the two areas are contiguous and open to one another. Again, final design
begins after a successful referendum.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">8) The size of this
building may require larger special fire fighting equipment to reach the higher
areas of this building?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We do not
anticipate the need to specialized firefighting equipment, but I will defer to
the Plainfield Fire Protection District on this.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">9) Which leads to new
facilities to house larger fire fighting equipment and additional training for
our fire fighters?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
Plainfield Fire Protection District will be responsible for the training and
equipping of their personnel. I can say that the Library will not be the
largest building in their service area, nor the one with the greatest fire
hazards.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">It is understood some
library users have experienced a slight over crowding, intense back ground
noise and the lack of use of a free computer. It is true some popular
activities for children may require you to deliver your child early.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One study
room that holds four people maximum and 75,337 people to serve. Shelving
through the entire upper level that is over 7 feet tall, with highest and
lowest shelves used. You could call it slight overcrowding. </span><a href="https://scontent.ford1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpl1/t31.0-8/12792359_10154171589597448_3701209857617931892_o.jpg" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">https://scontent.ford1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpl1/t31.0-8/12792359_10154171589597448_3701209857617931892_o.jpg</a></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">However, it seems a
small price to pay for the hundreds if not thousands of dollars per year people
have saved by using this antiquated library.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">For every dollar invested in the
Library, the community receives $6 in services: <a href="http://plainfieldlibrarydirector.blogspot.com/2016/03/roi-for-library-tax-dollars-shows-value.html">http://plainfieldlibrarydirector.blogspot.com/2016/03/roi-for-library-tax-dollars-shows-value.html</a> For the average homeowner, the cost increase would be less than $180 per year.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15pt;">Shouldn't 'We the
People' be better informed before we are asked vote YES or NO.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
Plainfield Public Library District’s web site has answers to your questions
on the Building and Expansion Planning web page to help you make an informed
decision: </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx</a> </span></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-86536367680605645092016-03-08T11:09:00.001-06:002016-03-08T11:09:24.726-06:00ROI for Library Tax Dollars Shows Value<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Residents
of the Plainfield Public Library District receive an excellent return on
investment in service for every dollar invested in the Library. The most common
method to illustrate the value of a local public library is to calculate the
value of the services used by the community versus the property tax funding
invested by the community in its library. By assigning a conservative value for
each use of a library service and multiplying that rate by the number of uses,
a library can determine the total value received by its community. For FY2015,
the Plainfield Public Library District provided the following value to its
residents:</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhXlK-eH6qP6yhNdYqjWX9p4OzA5Qu9oQkdD-GMS_5yPB7ntdzwWeQuNAk-k0d5P2yBtaa-GZL89RBITDEwZ8HdfNlaw-AoD6pTonm8hR0LZHxEXOSYMrJE_N1x3GfJIKVLCp1J1MB0k/s1600/ROI.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhXlK-eH6qP6yhNdYqjWX9p4OzA5Qu9oQkdD-GMS_5yPB7ntdzwWeQuNAk-k0d5P2yBtaa-GZL89RBITDEwZ8HdfNlaw-AoD6pTonm8hR0LZHxEXOSYMrJE_N1x3GfJIKVLCp1J1MB0k/s320/ROI.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Residents
invested <b>$3,120,756 </b>in<b> </b>annual property taxes paid to the Library
District in FY2015.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">For
every $1 invested in the Library, the community received $5.93 in services!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Services
not included in this calculation include faxing, scanning of documents, notary
public, tax form distribution and museum passes. Volunteer literacy and English
language learner tutoring, services facilitated by the Library, are also not
reflected here.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">For more information on the
Library’s proposed plans on the March 15 ballot, visit: </span><span style="font-family: "Gotham Book"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx</span></a></span>Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-45774672255846437522016-03-03T12:57:00.001-06:002016-03-03T12:57:51.231-06:0014 Critical Public Library Services Beyond Books<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Books are the public library brand, the word most
associated with them. With the proliferation of eBooks and online resources,
some people question the need for a larger Library building. The Plainfield
Library offers much more than simply the physical collections. Here are 14
important things the Library provides beyond its physical collections. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Provides Early Literacy Support<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Right now, Plainfield is projected to have 4,000 more
children under age 5 by 2030. The
building was meant for a population of about 30,000. Today, we serve over
75,000. The Library wants to support the
child care centers in Plainfield as a partner in early childhood literacy
through story time programs and learning services, as well as collections. We
want to make sure every child who is cared for in the home by a relative has a
librarian in their lives to deliver the same high quality early literacy
engagement they’d receive at a preschool.
If the referendum passes, we will have a library that is not only
welcoming, but ready for 21</span><sup><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">st</span></sup><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
century learning. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Helps Hold Kids at Grade Level<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Library supports school-aged kids reading skills and
holding them at grade level through the Summer Reading Program. Summer Reading offers
special events and incentives to encourage them to read. We want to give every
kid in Plainfield the opportunity to participate in Summer Reading. Capacity is
limited in the current building to 120 kids per event. Even running two
sections of an event, which is costly, we don’t have enough seats for all of
the families that want to participate. If the referendum passes, we will have a
library with the capacity to get even more kids participating in Summer Reading
to set them up for success in the next school year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">3.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Extends Learning Beyond the School Day<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Library is a partner in student success by extending learning beyond the times our
schools and school libraries are open. We offer enrichment opportunities like
computer classes, programs that are fun and informative, homework help and
online learning resources. We want to make sure every student has the learning
support they need to be successful. If the referendum passes, we will have a
library with the tools and learning environment our students need for 21<sup>st</sup>
century learning.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">4.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Helps Families with Special Needs Kids<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Statistics
show alarming increases in children with learning disabilities and autism.
Currently, our library provides 6 sensory story times per year for children
ages 3 to 9. The Library wants to provide every individual with access to
social and literacy resources. The Library can be the perfect public place for
these children and teens to cultivate social and literacy skills. These
families need programs and space that are adapted to their special needs in
order to help them feel secure. The Library can provide a social and
educational outlet where they feel welcome. If the referendum passes, we will
have the space necessary to support our families with special needs kids and
teens to access social and literacy resources.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">5.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Offers a Positive Place for Teens to Hang Out<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Library had a teen lounge area at one time, but the space was needed for more
shelving. We want to offer a positive environment for teens, as well as a
comfortable place for them to hang out. We need to make sure that every teen
has a safe haven when they need one and give them activities and resources to
help support their development into solid members of the community. Our
librarians are experts at connecting with teens and helping channel their
energy in positive ways. If the referendum passes, we will have a place where
teens enjoy a positive environment that supports their development. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">6.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Bridges the Digital Divide<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
public library is frequently the only place in a community to get free access
to the Internet and the computer or device needed to use that access.
Plainfield is no exception. Increasingly, students find it necessary to
complete homework utilizing the Internet at public libraries after school. If
they cannot access the Internet, they cannot do their homework. The Library
bridges the gap for those households that cannot afford Internet access at
home. Access to technology is at the heart of 21<sup>st</sup> century library
services. If the referendum passes, we will provide access to the devices and
bandwidth that bridge the digital divide. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">7.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library is a Retail Anchor of Downtown Area<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hundreds
of people visit the Library every day. Studies show that when a library is
located in a retail area, spending at businesses near that library increases.
Our Library not only increases foot traffic in the downtown area but also
partners with the Village to offer public parking that supports downtown
businesses. If the referendum passes, library visits will increase which in
turn will increase foot traffic for surrounding businesses. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">8.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Supports Job Skills Development<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Right
now, the Library offers more than 15 computer classes every month. The computer
classroom limits class size to 8 people. The Library wants to provide
opportunities to improve job skills through computer classes and continuing
education. We partner with Will County Workforce Development to bring their Mobile
Workforce Center to the Library weekly. We want our labor force to have the job
skills needed for success in the workplace. If the referendum passes, we will
be able to provide more job skills training for 21<sup>st</sup> century workforce.
</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">9.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Offers Job Seeker Support<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Today,
the Library offers a monthly job club meeting. With a building meant for a
population of 30,000 serving a community of over 75,000, our programs compete
with each other for the limited space available. The Library serves as an
important partner with other agencies focused on employment activities, such as
Illinois WorkNet. In addition to helping people find actual jobs, the Library supports
preparatory steps such as creating resumes, researching job information,
submitting applications online, and receiving training for job-related skills. If
the referendum passes, we will be able extend our reach in helping people find
jobs. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">10.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The Library is an Economic
Development Engine</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Small
businesses that do not have the ability to adapt and reposition their
businesses using current and detailed online information are at a serious
disadvantage in the competitive, global new economy. The Library strengthens
economic growth and resilience in the micro and small business sectors by
providing not only the resources they need to be competitive, but also hands-on
training in using those resources. Through partnerships with SCORE and the
Chamber of Commerce, the Library connects businesses to a broader network of
support. If the referendum passes, we’ll be able to extend 21<sup>st</sup>
century services that give our local businesses a competitive advantage. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">11.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Builds Community identity<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Plainfield’s
rapid growth left the community struggling with its identity. The Library connects
people with the larger community, providing a gathering place where all are
welcome. The Library has value as a comfortable place where people can gather,
especially as opportunities for social interaction have decreased in the wake
of more people seeking out services online. If the referendum passes, it will
be that comfortable place to gather. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">12.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library is a Social Leveler<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Many
of our residents are able to purchase books, subscribe to magazines, and
conduct their research online without ever visiting a library. But not all of
our residents and families have those options. Universal access is one of the
most important strengths of the Library.
Libraries give everyone the opportunity to improve themselves and their
life circumstances, as well as enhancing leisure time, by giving them the
chance to socialize and by providing access to activities others take for
granted because they can afford them. Access for all is at the heart of public
library services. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">13.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Provides ESL and Inclusion for Immigrants<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Plainfield’s immigrant population has
been growing – and English language learning and literacy support is critical
for them. Learning English can improve so much for these new residents – from
better jobs to feeling connected and valued within the community. One of our
regular ESL participants, who is now tutoring others, compares our Library to
an island. When she came to this country, she felt like she was drifting in an
ocean, feeling lost and disconnected. When she found the Library, it became her
island, her home and connection to the community. The Library’s English
language learning support helps immigrants become engaged members of the
Plainfield community. If the referendum passes, we’ll add the needed capacity
for these growing ESL classes. </span><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;">14.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Library Reaches Beyond Its Walls<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">With its undersized building, the Library has had to be
creative in how we offer service. One thing that makes our Library unique is
the amount of programs that are offered at locations throughout the community
rather than in the library building. From an “Appy Hour” class on smartphone
apps at a local tavern to “Donuts and Digital Books” at a bakery, the Library
takes its show on the road. But not all programs can be held at other locations.
The Library wants to offer both on site and off site locations for programs. If
the referendum passes, we will be able to offer more and larger on site
programs while continuing to offer off site programs too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">If the referenda fail, a</span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">ll of these
services will be competing for funding with projects necessary to keep the
existing building operational in the long term. Services that:</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">help our youngest kids be ready for school</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">hold school-aged kids’ reading
skills at grade level over the summer</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">support our kids learning beyond
the school day</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">support families with special
needs kids</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">give our teens a positive
environment</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">level the playing field by </span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">providing access to technology for all</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">provide job skills training</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">help job seekers in their search</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">invest in our own community and workforce</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">support local businesses</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">connect people with their community</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">It’s
not fearmongering or a threat to talk about what happens i</span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">f the referenda fail. A</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">n
estimated minimum 20% cut to programs and services will be needed to fund the
projects necessary to keep the existing building operational in the long term</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. That’s
the reality of a 25 year old building that’s been heavily used and the needs
identified more than a decade ago that continued to grow when the 2009
referendum failed. The need continues to grow today. The proposed plan going
before the voters on March 15 meets the needs of today and prepares the Library
for the future.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-62165015146619012402016-02-29T13:55:00.001-06:002016-02-29T13:55:45.254-06:00Much Ado About a Shower<div class="MsoNormal">
Recent commentary of social media points to a single 75 sq
ft inclusion in the Schematic Building Program of over 77,000 sq ft as evidence
of including unnecessary items in the proposed plan. Also, the Schematic
Building Program is referred to as "blueprints." <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, a 75 sq ft Staff Shower room was included in the Schematic Building Program as a green design and healthy workplace feature. The
proposed building is actually 72,000 sq ft, while the Schematic Building Program totals 77,000 sq ft. In other words, 5,000 sq ft of what is in the Schematic Building Program
will not be included in the final design. The floorplans as drawn today show
aggregate spaces for departments and functional areas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A Schematic Building program is not blueprints, nor
specifications, nor a final design. It is simply a set of instructions for an
architect about what space to include in a design, how those spaces relate to
one another and more detailed requirements such as: room sizes, activities,
occupancy, and equipment needed. The final design process, which will include
additional opportunities for public input, will begin after successful
referenda. The process will determine what is included in the final design and
specifications. This will include all of the things you don't see yet on the
floorplans - study rooms, computer classroom, Teen Tech Center, etc.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Now here is the true irony about including a staff shower in the Schematic Building Program:
did you know that the current building had a staff shower in the corner of the
Boiler Room from the time it opened until late 2013? Yes, it's true. It was
used primarily by maintenance staff after a shift of heavy outdoor work and
staff biking to work. It was removed in late 2013, to be replaced by a large
utility sink, at the request of Maintenance staff. That is the only utility
sink in the building.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Providing a staff shower supports Bike to Work initiatives
that lowers health care costs by having a healthier work force. Asking workers
to bike means giving them a chance to clean up before their shift serving the
public. It's what big, smart corporations like Google do. <a href="http://www.triplepundit.com/special/business-of-biking/bicycling-cuts-health-care-costs/">http://www.triplepundit.com/special/business-of-biking/bicycling-cuts-health-care-costs/</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Not only that, it can help address the concern over having
adequate parking. Fewer staff cars leaves more spaces available for more
customer parking.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So staff shower or not, over 5,000 sq ft of space listed in
the Schematic Building Program will not be included in the final plan. I hope
the public meetings to provide input on these decisions will generate as much
interest on social media as the staff shower has!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-43664123110531815632016-02-26T17:18:00.000-06:002016-02-27T08:21:30.109-06:00Top Three Themes of Recent Referenda Buzz<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">As the March 15 election approaches, Library staff
have recognized three recurring themes in the questions asked most frequently:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Branches<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Budgeting for Capital Replacement<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 5.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Technology </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Branches<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One of
the first decisions made in the planning process was to pursue only single
location options. Cost was the number one factor in the decision to pursue only
single location options. In Illinois, 60-70% of a public library’s annual
operating expense goes to staffing. Staffing a second facility would
substantially increase annual operating expenses. The Library Board of Trustees
began the planning process with the express intention of developing an
efficient and cost effective plan that would significantly improve library
service to meet the needs of the community for the foreseeable future. A
vehicle would be needed to move materials and supplies between buildings,
another cost. Other operational costs are also increased by operating multiple
facilities, such as maintenance on building systems, utilities, landscaping and
snow removal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The
current location is near the geographic center of the Library’s service area. At
the proposed 72,000 sq ft size and serving 75,000 people, the Library District
would reach the national average for public libraries to deploy a branch
facility. The proposed building would maximize the downtown site, leaving
deployment of a branch as a strategy to meet future needs. A book return and
pick up locker service point could be used as an interim solution to meet more
immediate needs. I posted about the decision to pursue a single location on my
blog almost a year ago: <a href="http://plainfieldlibrarydirector.blogspot.com/2015/03/board-of-trustees-to-pursue-single.html">http://plainfieldlibrarydirector.blogspot.com/2015/03/board-of-trustees-to-pursue-single.html</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Budgeting for Capital Replacement<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When
the Library expanded from 2,700 to 27,000 sq ft in 1990, the operating budget
remained the same. A referendum to operate the expanded Library failed in 1993.
In 1994, 50% of the Library staff were laid off, Library hours were cut from
over 60 per week to 48 and the budget frozen. This deficit in service was only
restored by the building boom in Plainfield. Per capita support of the Library
has not kept pace with inflation. In today’s dollars, 1990 per capita support
would be $51.99. In 2015, the Library received $44.93 per capita.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the
early 2000’s, the Library Board of Trustees made the decision that bonds for expansion
and capital replacement would be sought when the 1990 building bonds were paid
off. Replacing the existing bonds at that time with new bonds would balance
meeting the community’s immediate demand for service with long term replacement
costs. The 2009 referendum failed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since 2010,
the Library Board has spent more than $1 million on capital repairs and replacements
to keep the current building operational. In 2011, KJWW Engineering began a
full evaluation of the building and its systems. Their report cited over $2.1
million in capital repairs and replacement to keep the building operational in
the long term, without addressing bringing it up to current code. <a href="http://www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/general/board/Building%20Evaluation%202-2012.pdf">http://www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/general/board/Building%20Evaluation%202-2012.pdf</a>
A Long Range Budget Plan was approved in 2013 to provide for capital repairs
and replacements. This included budget freezes in some lines, reorganization of
staff including elimination of five positions and reductions in hours. To keep
the current building operational in the long term, further cuts will be needed if
the referenda fail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Technology </span></u><u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The way we live has changed drastically in the last
25 years. The proliferation of technology has increased demand for library
service, not reduced it. Since 1990, the number of questions answered at the
Library increased 2,500%, from 2,236 to over 56,000. The number of people
attending Library programs increased 2,100%, from 2,214 to over 50,000. 21st
century library services reflect the changing world we live in, utilizing the
latest technology and responding to the changing needs of our community. These
services include technology support, hands-on individual instruction, loaning
devices and teaching software applications. The current Library building is not
designed for 21st century library services.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">More information and documentation of the planning
process can be found at: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx</a>
Visit the Library to view the 3D model on display near the Check Out Desk. View
renderings of the proposed exterior on bulletin boards over the book return,
near the elevator on ground level and in the lower level lobby.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-26872310005752956302016-02-23T10:37:00.004-06:002016-02-23T10:37:52.964-06:00Proposed Library Exterior Sparks CommentsLove ‘em or hate ‘em – the buzz around town on exterior renderings of the proposed Plainfield Library hits both extremes.<br />
<br />
Comments include:<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Can’t wait to see this<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Offensive to our sensibilities<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Vibrant and glowing<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Too big to be welcoming<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Modern with classic elements<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>No elements of historic setting<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Beautiful windows for natural light<br />
•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Doesn’t fit with downtown<br />
<br />
Either way, the renderings as shown are not the final design. So the library can guarantee that the exterior will not be exactly like the renderings as they are drawn today.<br />
<br />
The final design process won’t begin until after successful referenda. Library officials have committed to an open, public process for finalizing the proposed plans. Specific dates have not yet been announced, but library officials point to scheduled open house events during National Library Week in April as potential opportunities to begin the process. Last year, during National Library Week, the Plainfield Library held four public open house events where attendees provided input on 21st century library services and features they wanted in a new library. This year, the Library may begin the final design process with similar open houses to engage the community on the exterior design.<br />
<br />
The design concepts balance the many diverse needs that influence the exterior. For example, at a public meeting, participants discussed making the west elevation quieter and less intrusive for our residential neighbors by reducing the number of windows. After seeing it drawn that way, residents and Village planners wanted windows on that side. It was redrawn shortly before the final rendering was made with windows.<br />
<br />
Considerations in the development of the proposed exterior include both physical site needs and architectural context of the location. For the physical site, adjacent properties have residential, commercial, religious and educational uses. Locating the entry on the west side of the site facilitates pedestrian access. A service drive separates vehicular and pedestrian access points. South facing windows maximize natural light. Patterned brick, a strong cornice line and stone detailing mimic architectural details of the downtown.<br />
<br />
Visit the Library to view the 3D model on display near the Check Out Desk. View renderings of the proposed exterior on bulletin boards over the book return, near the elevator on ground level and in the lower level lobby. Renderings and documentation of the planning process can be found at: http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-4090810343599625842016-02-18T09:29:00.003-06:002016-02-18T09:29:40.498-06:00To the Person in the Ski Mask Putting Vote No Information on CarsDear Masked Person,<br />
<br />
In the Library parking lot at approximately 6:30pm last evening, you were seen by a Library Trustee placing something on the windshields of vehicles. Because your behavior was suspicious (you were dressed in all black and wearing a ski mask), she looked to see what it was you were distributing. You were placing "Vote No" doorhangers on cars at the same time that the open, public Board Meeting was beginning, with the opportunity for you to voice your opinion and ask any questions about the plan, how it was developed, what's included and why. Next time, please come in and be part of the process! We look forward to you removing the mask and engaging directly in the public process. <br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
<br />
Julie M. Milavec<br />
<br />
P.S. Further research shows Citizens for a Reasonable Library, listed as paying for the doorhangers, does not yet appear as a registered political action committee on the <a href="https://www.elections.il.gov/campaigndisclosure/committeesearch.aspx" target="_blank">Illinois State Board of Elections web site</a>.Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-73397649600912518102016-02-11T18:48:00.002-06:002016-02-11T18:48:31.193-06:00More Emails Spreading MisinformationAt least two more emails, similar to the one addressed in my February 1 blog post, are spreading misinformation about the Library's referenda.<br />
<br />
The Library is committed to getting the correct information out to residents. Please attend a drop in question and answer session, ask a library representative at a community event, submit questions online, or call, text or chat with a librarian. Submit questions directly to the library <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-feedback.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
There is an open Drop In Q&A in the lower level lobby of the Library from 1-5pm on Sunday, where anyone can stop by and get complete answers to any questions they have.<br />
<br />
Here are a few points addressing the latest emails:<br />
<br />
There are two ballot questions because one funds the building bonds and one funds the ongoing operational costs of that building. The Library Board of Trustees includes good stewardship of taxpayers dollars their <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/board/Strategic%20Plan%20FY2016%20and%20beyond.pdf" target="_blank">Strategic Plan</a>. They provide ready access to all of the library district's <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/citizens-information-center.aspx" target="_blank">financial information</a>.<br />
<br />
The Library District serves 75,337 people in the Village of Plainfield, Village of Bolingbrook in Wheatland Township, Village of Romeoville in Plainfield Township, all of unincorporated Plainfield Township and most of unincorporated Wheatland Township. A map of its Will County boundaries is available <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/board/PlainfieldLibraryDist__26x38_2015.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
The estimated cost calculator, which includes both referenda, is <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/fmv-calculator.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>.Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-29427003730624703072016-02-08T11:35:00.000-06:002016-02-11T17:01:50.753-06:0025 Years of Statistics Show Demand for 21st Century Library ServiceOver the last 25 years, public libraries around the world have changed significantly, including the Plainfield Library. Since 1990, <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/1990-to-2015.pdf" target="_blank">use of the Plainfield library</a> by the community has skyrocketed, surpassing even the population boom of the late 1990’s and early 2000’s. New technology provides instant access to knowledge and the ability to create and share information and works of the imagination with ease. Undersized for the population served since 2000 according to <i>Serving Our Public: Standards for Illinois Public Libraries 3.0</i>, the Library’s building limits its services.<br />
<br />
When construction on the current Plainfield Library began, the official Library District population was 14,123, with five schools in Plainfield School District 202. Today, the Library serves 75,337, with 30 schools in Plainfield School District 202. That same 27,000 square foot Library is serving more than five times as many people. When the Library opened, it offered two word processing computers, typewriters for public use and collections included cassette and VHS tapes. Modern email did not exist. Today, not only are there dozens of public computers used for more than 23,000 hours of public computing sessions annually, the Library also provides WiFi and power for people to bring their own devices. Formats in the collection include DVD, Blu-ray, MP3, eBooks and eAudiobooks, streaming music and video, eReaders, Rokus, and more. The collection is over 209,000 items, which is only possible because it includes over 60,000 virtual items. While population grew 391% since the current facility opened to the public, check outs increased 454% but other library services are even more in demand.<br />
<br />
People are using public libraries differently than they did 25 years ago. Librarians are often asked, “Why do we need libraries when we have the Internet?” The Internet cannot provide the personalized help and hands-on instruction of the 21st century library. In 1990, 2,500 reference questions were answered by Plainfield’s librarians. In 2015, it was more than 56,000, over 21 times as many answers. Today’s questions are more complex because the easy answers are readily available. Librarians help when you can’t find what you need on the first page of results from Google. Complex questions, help with devices and teaching new technology skills comprise answers to today’s questions at the Library.<br />
<br />
Classes and programs are a huge part of 21st century public library service. 1993 was the first year the Library kept program attendance statistics – with 2,214 attending programs that were only for children. In 2015, over 50,000 attended a Library program, spanning all ages. That’s 22 times more people attending programs in 2015.<br />
<br />
21 times more questions answered and 22 times more people attending programs show the shift to 21st century library services. Those services focus on continuous learning, content creation, and making connections to each other and the community. Demand for services exceeds the physical capacity of the building. With a smartphones more powerful than a super computer of 25 years ago, people today need help keeping up with the fast-paced changes in technology. But they also need a place to connect and collaborate, to make things and share things. A 21st century public library is a community center for the way we live today.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-6414901733036362332016-02-01T21:41:00.003-06:002016-02-01T21:41:57.531-06:00Response to Anonymous Email about Referenda<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">With two referenda before the
Plainfield Library’s voters on March 15, getting information out to residents
on the proposed plan is a priority for Library Trustees and staff. The Library
offers a variety of ways to ensure all have an opportunity to get answers to
any questions they may have about the proposed plan: drop in Q&A,
representatives at community events, email form for questions, special
newsletters and more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The following response is based on an
email reported to be circulating among residents, as forwarded to a Library
official. The text in </span><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">red</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> is the unedited
email, as forwarded. The text in black is answers to questions, clarifications
and context.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Subject:</span></b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <b>FW: Library</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">20
year/39M Bond for project ref<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">True.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The building bond question on the ballot authorizes
a 20 year bond for $39,000,000 to build a new library, including buying
property, tearing down the old building, making a new parking lot, buying
furnishings and equipping the new building, including servers and computers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">100%
funded by levy increase ref<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Partly
true.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The building bond portion of the increase is 100%
funded by property taxes and will be paid off in 20 years, then automatically
removed from your tax bill. The bond repayment tax rate generally decreases
over time as new property is annexed or develops, spreading the fixed payment
amount over a larger tax base. The bond rate on the existing Library was 0.1657
in its first year, but dropped to 0.0094 by the final (20th) year. Local
funding match is required for the Live and Learn Construction Grant for which
the Library would apply: <a href="http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/library/grants/livelearn_construction.html">http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/library/grants/livelearn_construction.html</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The limiting rate question is for an increase of
19% (0.0039 mils) to operate the proposed library, which is 3 times larger than
the current building. Property taxes comprise approximately 85% of the
Library’s annual operating revenue. The limiting tax rate increase is ongoing
for the operation of the Library, subject to the tax cap after the first year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Building
Going from 27,160 SQ Feet to 72,000 SQ feet<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Parking
lot to 170 spots<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">True.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The estimated size and number of parking spaces
listed are correct. The design will be finalized following a successful
referendum. An updated Space Needs Analysis in 2015 initially called for 94,000
sq ft, but was reduced by the Library Board of Trustees to contain costs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1989
ref failed, failed 1993, failed in 2009 for a 100,000 SQ ft facility reduced
from 130,000 ft<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">True.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The three referenda listed were for different
purposes. The building bond referendum in 1989 failed. A revised building bond
referendum passed in 1990</span> <span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">with the support of the community for the library
and its services, resulting in the construction of the current Library. The
1993 limiting tax rate referendum, to operate the new Library that was 10 times
larger than the old, failed. Following that failure, half of the staff were
laid off, the materials budget frozen and hours of operation slashed to 48 per
week (68 per week today). Restoration of services occurred as the building boom
began in the late 1990’s. The 2009 limiting tax rate referendum was to fund
both building bonds and operation for a renovated and expanded main library and
a new branch. The original Space Needs Analysis showed a need for 130,000 sq ft
of Library space. The Library Board of Trustees proposed a plan for 100,000 sq
ft total library space. Not listed is the 1988 referendum to merge the
McClester-Nimmons Village of Plainfield Free Public Library and Plainfield Township
Library into the Plainfield Public Library District and expand its service
boundaries, which passed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Marketing
Scheme-<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1)Hired
a firm and haven’t disclosed amount paid to market Ref/design architecture<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">False.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">No firm has been hired to market the referendum.
The contract for Nagle Hartray Architects for pre-referendum services through
schematic design only was approved on April 15, 2015 for $99,000.00. Graham
Harwood from CCS International was contracted in January 2015 as owners’
representative with pre-referendum cost estimating for $42,400.00. The
Plainfield Library’s monthly financial reports are included in the Board
packets posted on the Citizens Information Center web page: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/citizens-information-center.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/citizens-information-center.aspx</a>
Also included in the packets is supporting documentation for Action Items on the
agenda, including contracts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2)
Message is that average property tax will only go up $200.00 per year- that is
from a sample in the lower end homes in the Bolingbrook Portion of the
district- Homes in Plainfield Township that fall in the Lib District est.
$350-400 per year, est. Wheatland $400-650 per year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">False.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">American Fact Finder, which is the latest census
information, was the source for median home values in 2014 (most recent year available).
Those were:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Village of Plainfield - $289,300 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Plainfield Township - $193,500<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wheatland Township - $358,400<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The estimated increase for the median home value in the Village of
Plainfield is $172.19, for Plainfield Township is $111.38 and for Wheatland
Township is $216.04. Homeowners determine their own home’s estimated increase using
the cost calculator found here: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/fmv-calculator.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/fmv-calculator.aspx</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3) FUD-
Fear of Uncertainty and doubt- if it doesn’t pass, capital improvements that
have been ignored/not budgeted for<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">False.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What happens if the referenda fail is based not on fear,
uncertainty or doubt, but fact. Capital needs have been at the forefront of the
Library’s budget and planning process. The Building Evaluation 2-2012 outlines
the base capital needs for keeping the current facility operational in the long
term. That report, along with Strategic Plan 2011 to 2015, Strategic Plan 2016
and Beyond, and Long Range Budget Plan FY14-FY17 can all be found in the Other
Documents section of the Board of Trustees web page here: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/board.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/board.aspx</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Necessity:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Page
72/76 has a staff shower room in the schematics<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">True<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Schematic Building Program shows a staff shower
room with an allotment of 75 sq ft, which was intended to also serve for performers
in the large event space, combining meeting rooms to seat 290. With the
Schematic Building Program listing 77,000 sq ft of space, the final design
process, following successful referenda, will include trade-offs or combining
spaces, such as adding a shower stall to an accessible restroom. Green design,
if the Library Board decides to pursue LEED certification, includes features
like a shower room for staff to support bicycling to work. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Drive
through book drop causing traffic/safety management- much more parking lot
space required<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">False.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A drive up book return and service window eliminate
the hazard of cars blocking traffic flow in front of the building in order to
return materials, as seen with the current building, and provides safe,
convenient access.</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;"> Delivery
and receiving are also accessed by the</span> <span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">service
drive in the rear.</span> <span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maintaining an adequate amount of parking was the #1 public comment
received about the downtown site. Again, the design will be finalized following
successful referenda.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Exponential
expansion of space for programs that will compete with the private sector- some
of which are already offered by the YMCA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Misleading.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Program attendance has grown exponentially – 2,191%
since 1993, the first year program attendance was tracked. Classes and programs
are a huge part of 21st century public library service. These services reflect
the changing world we live in, utilizing the latest technology and responding
to the evolving needs of our community. The YMCA and private sector businesses
may offer some similar programs, but their missions are different. A public
library by definition provides access to knowledge, information and works of
the imagination and gives that access freely to all. The Library partners with
public and private organizations to further the reach of each by pooling
resources when it makes sense to do so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">No
scientific Poll showing the residents support this proposal when given the true
scope of the project. – they were given a push poll<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">False.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Public Research Group, from Naperville, worked with
the Library Board of Trustees and staff, first to determine what information
they were seeking and then how to get that information from respondents. The
benefit of using a professional survey company is their expertise in developing
questions that are unbiased and follow up to confirm the answers given. The
report on that telephone survey can be viewed here: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/2015-09-Telephone-Survey-Final-Report.pdf">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/2015-09-Telephone-Survey-Final-Report.pdf</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">No
strategic planning/capital replacement plan- ED since 2000, ADA/Building code
violations need attention<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">False.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As item 3) above shows, the Library Board of
Trustees has worked diligently to maintain a building with myriad structural
and design issues. Compliance with full current building code is triggered when
a significant investment is made in the existing building. Addressing the work
identified in the Building Program 2-2012 would trigger this compliance. <a href="http://www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/general/board/Building%20Evaluation%202-2012.pdf">http://www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/general/board/Building%20Evaluation%202-2012.pdf</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Boundary Map- Will County Portion Only-<a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/board/PlainfieldLibraryDist__26x38_2015.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/board/PlainfieldLibraryDist__26x38_2015.pdf</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/IL-Plainfield-Schematic-Building-Program.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/IL-Plainfield-Schematic-Building-Program.pdf</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">P 76 to see the shower
room planned for the library<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/Exterior-Renderings-Proposed-Plainfield-Library.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/Exterior-Renderings-Proposed-Plainfield-Library.pdf</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 5pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/Site-Plan-Proposed-Plainfield-Library.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/Site-Plan-Proposed-Plainfield-Library.pdf</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 5pt;">
<br /></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Links to the Library’s web page.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The entire planning process and
documentation is available on the Building & Expansion Planning web page: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If you have further questions, stop
by a drop in question and answer session, ask a Library representative at a
community event, submit questions online via the web form, call, text or chat
with a librarian. Dates and times of drop in sessions and Library
representatives at community events are available here: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/timeline-012016.pdf">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/timeline-012016.pdf</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif;">To
submit your questions directly to the Library: <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-feedback.aspx">http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-feedback.aspx</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">You can also call
Library Director Julie M. Milavec at 815-439-2874 or visit the Library’s
website at <a href="http://www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/">www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-10816275577496788582016-01-27T12:06:00.001-06:002016-01-27T12:06:35.788-06:00Got Questions? The Library Has Answers!Did you know that the number of questions answered at Plainfield Library has increased 2,100% in the last 25 years? It's true! In 1990, over 2,500 reference questions were answered. In 2015, more than 56,000 questions answered by librarians! FTR - that doesn't count things like "where's the bathroom?" and "what time do you close?" With smartphones and Google answering the easy questions, librarians get the complex questions like device troubleshooting and hands on help - and teach people to be good information consumers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaBnAzURRiHVK05e9ivbhH0NrK50THtAN8diDsoe_xOf1aW00PnEexxnaluh4-5rWwGxZuoYSh0EORDfTP2jJEEGCjw3eDCwjGwbiM2oBXQUpkzcBYeLYv2vbquFkR7Z8nAiggCdoHYOA/s1600/floaties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaBnAzURRiHVK05e9ivbhH0NrK50THtAN8diDsoe_xOf1aW00PnEexxnaluh4-5rWwGxZuoYSh0EORDfTP2jJEEGCjw3eDCwjGwbiM2oBXQUpkzcBYeLYv2vbquFkR7Z8nAiggCdoHYOA/s320/floaties.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thanks to EveryLibrary for this great visual. In person, by phone, via chat, text or email, your librarians are ready to help!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For questions specifically regarding the upcoming referenda on the March 15 ballot, stop by a Drop In Q&A with me 6pm-9pm on Thursday, February 4 or 10:30am-2:30pm in the Lower Level Lobby. I'll be handing out Winter Reading buttons too!</div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-65013529238719512142016-01-18T11:32:00.000-06:002016-01-18T11:32:05.409-06:0021st Century Public Libraries Help Transform the WorkforceAccording to <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2016/01/18/news/economy/job-losses-technology-five-million/index.html?iid=hp-toplead-dom" target="_blank">this article</a> on CNN Money today, jobs are being lost to redundancy and automation, but created in different sectors, requiring different skills. The article states:<br />
<br />
"Countries will have to invest in transforming their workforce if they want to keep up with the changes and avoid a worse case scenario of "talent shortages, mass unemployment and growing inequality," said Klaus Schwab, the founder and chairman of the World Economic Forum.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>Investing in education and adult learning programs is a good place to start.</b><br />
<br />
Around 65% of children starting primary school today will end up working in jobs that don't yet exist, and their future training is crucial, according to the report." [emphasis mine]<br />
<br />
21st century public libraries support job skills development and adult learning programs, as well as the more traditional roles of supporting early literacy development and education. As the job market changes and in-demand job skills shift, public libraries offer adult learners opportunities to gain and develop the skills employers are seeking as well as supporting education for kids.<br />
<br />
The Plainfield Library's proposed building and expansion plans are based on providing 21st century public library service to this community that will help our workforce develop the skills that are in demand in the job market, today and in the future.Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-26892819821153042502016-01-12T10:44:00.001-06:002016-01-14T08:36:27.960-06:00Libraries Transform<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/oS4TgdZ-7eI/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oS4TgdZ-7eI?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
The new campaign from the American Library Association about the changing role of libraries is very timely for Plainfield! Libraries connect our communities to resources and how to use them. Libraries connect people to each other as community centers. And libraries offer services that are as unique as our community.Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-48555604267126189512015-12-08T10:17:00.000-06:002015-12-08T10:17:06.811-06:00Why does Plainfield need a new, larger Library?<div class="MsoNormal">
How has Plainfield changed since 1991? How has daily life
changed? The Library building has not changed to keep up with 25 years of
technology and advancement! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When construction on the Library began, the official Library
district population was 14,123, with 5 schools in Plainfield School District
202. Today, the Library serves 75,337 with 30 schools in Plainfield School
District 202. Over 60,000 more people are being served by the same 27,000 square
foot Library. When the Library opened, it offered 2 word processing computers
and typewriters for public use and collections included cassette tapes and VHS.
Modern email did not exist. Today, more than 30 public computers are used for
more than 24,000 hours of public computing sessions annually. Formats include
DVD, BluRay, MP3, downloadable books and audiobooks, streaming music and video,
ereaders, Rokus, etc. The Library has over 209,000 items in its collection today,
possible only due to virtual rather than physical items. That’s four times the
1991 opening day collection of 41,558.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
People sometimes ask “Why do we need libraries when we have
the Internet?” The Internet cannot provide the personalized help and hands-on
instruction of the 21<sup>st</sup> century Library. In 1991, 2,236 reference
questions were asked and answered at the Library. In 2015, it was more than 56,000,
over 25 times the number asked in 1990. Today’s questions are more complex because
the easy answers are readily available. Complex questions, such as help with
devices and teaching new technology skills comprise answers to today’s
questions at the Library.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Classes and programs are a huge part of 21<sup>st</sup>
century public library service. 1993 was the first year the Library kept
program attendance statistics – with 2,214 attending programs that were only
for children. In 2015, over 50,000 attended a library program, spanning all
ages. That’s 22 times more people attending programs in 2015.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With more services and devices and formats in demand than
ever before, per capita purchasing power has declined. In 1990, the Library District’s
median home value of $100,000 paid $103 in property taxes to the Library, about
$30.17 per capita. Today’s median home value of $300,000 paid $192.89 in property
taxes, about $44.93 per capita. Adjusted for inflation, 1990 per capita revenue
would be $51.99 in today’s dollars. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In 2015, the average Plainfield Public Library resident
checked out more than 8 items, attended a library program, used a public
computer for an average session of 43 minutes and asked a question. That is $256.87
in value for materials and services received for the $44.93 per capita
investment in the Library. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Serving five times more people in the Library District, doing
22 and 25 times the business in core services and holding a collection four
times larger than when it opened, the physical building has not changed. Its
systems have reached and exceeded their useful life. It was not designed for
today’s technology and lifestyles. A Library that is designed to support today’s
technology, learning environments and opportunities for connecting as a
community is the most efficient and cost-effective solution to continue
providing quality library service that meets Plainfield’s needs in the 21st century.<o:p></o:p></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-82448810137703140202015-11-24T11:28:00.001-06:002015-11-24T22:31:27.345-06:00Expansion planning process wrapping up<div class="MsoNormal">
With just two more Library Board meetings in 2015, the
expansion planning process is nearly at an end. It’s been more than a year
since the Plainfield Public Library District’s Board of Trustees began planning
for an expansion to go on the 2016 ballot. By year end, the Library Board is anticipated to vote on the ordinances which would place referendum questions on the ballot for the March 15, 2016 Primary Election.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The planning process began in November 2014 when Anders
Dahlgren of Library Planning Associates was contracted to update the building
program with population projections and statistics. The public input began in April 2015 with Open Houses to gather
community input on services for a 21<sup>st</sup> century library. Public
meetings throughout the summer and fall gathered more feedback as the plans
came together, helping to refine the concept plans. A telephone survey tested
community support for the targeted maximum tax impact. Ultimately, public support for the project will be measured at the ballot box in March.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Visit the <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx" target="_blank">Building and Expansion Planning web page</a> for the
latest information on the plans and to provide feedback.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Library Board meetings are Thursday, December 3 at
7:00pmin the Storytime room and Wednesday, December 16 at 6:30pm in the Small
Meeting Room. All are welcome to attend.<o:p></o:p></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-55346201978686330652015-11-10T12:14:00.002-06:002015-11-10T12:14:39.920-06:00Conference Call in the Parking Lot<div class="MsoNormal">
Today, our Senior Services Liaison has a conference call
scheduled with the Alzheimer’s Association. She’ll be in the parking lot,
sitting in her car during that call. Why? Because her office is a workroom
shared with her supervisor and 18 coworkers. What about another room? There isn’t
one available. Every staff space is used for multiple functions. Even the Library
Director’s office doubles as the staff conference room. This is not employees
whining about working conditions. It’s the reality of working in the current
Library building. The lack of space affects every level of service, from how and
where employees work to how many people can attend a program. A lot of time and energy is spent on making do with physical space constraints that could be spent on providing service.<o:p></o:p></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-74100973998620651092015-11-04T12:53:00.001-06:002015-11-04T12:53:27.671-06:00Comment: I Love the Fancy New Doors.<div class="MsoNormal">
We’re very pleased to have a functional, accessible
automatic door! You may have noticed the increasingly frequent outages of the
swing-arm door opener in the year prior to the replacement. As the only
accessible entrance to this public building, it is imperative to have a
functional automatic opener. Every other entry to the building requires going
up or down stairs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Because Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility
was not yet part of the building code when the Library was built 25 years ago,
there was no automatic opener on the doors until the early 2000’s. At that
time, a swing-arm power opener was retro-fitted to the existing doors. The high
volume of traffic through those front doors put years of hard use on the
opener.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the 2012 Building Evaluation, replacement of that opener
was estimated to cost approximately $50,000 due to the anticipated cost of
redesigning the existing vestibule area to accommodate automatic sliding doors
more appropriate to the volume of use. Due to the anticipated cost, the Board
of Library Trustees sidelined the project until it simply could not wait any
longer. When Midwest Automatic Door submitted a proposal that used the existing
door openings, it was a very pleasant surprise to have the replacement cost
come in under $20,000. <o:p></o:p></div>
Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-32983146163548839062015-10-20T10:58:00.000-05:002015-10-20T10:58:45.375-05:00Comment: The Library building is fine! It looks good. Why not keep it?In July, the Board of Trustees decided to pursue new construction only. The order-of-magnitude cost estimates of the renovation-and-addition versus new construction showed that renovation actually cost more due to project phasing and moving expenses. The summary of the issues considered in making this decision are summarized on the final page of the<a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/pdf/2015-07-15%20Board%20meeting%20presentation%20and%20summary.pdf" target="_blank"> July presentation</a>.<br />
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That summary includes many of the problems with the existing building. While it looks good on the surface, it's deficiencies are numerous when you take a closer look. The <a href="http://www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/general/board/Building%20Evaluation%202-2012.pdf" target="_blank">2012 Building Evaluation</a> enumerates the extensive repair and replacement needs to continue operating this building in the long term, as at nearly 25 years old, nearly every system is at or beyond its expected useful life. The study shows only the building systems and does not address its deficiencies for providing 21st century library service. The Library Board of Trustees have determined that the most cost-effective long term solution is new construction on the current site, with the inclusion of at least two additional properties.<br />
<br />Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4576302569863614589.post-5730306400900693622015-10-06T08:00:00.000-05:002015-10-06T08:00:01.027-05:00Placemakers and LandmarksCheck out this <a href="http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2015/09/buildings/library-buildings/the-new-placemakers-new-landmark-libraries-2015/#_" target="_blank">great article in Library Journal about the New Landmark Libraries</a> 2015 winners! It highlights the trends found among the winners that demonstrate the new norms of 21st century libraries. The article states:<br />
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“The 2015 trends foreground the value public libraries are providing to their communities in the 21st century and illustrate how libraries are out in front as investors in community development and health. The visibility our Landmarks achieve enables each library (and its staff, services, and collections) to connect to the neighborhood, the town or city, and its surroundings in ways that truly celebrate what a difference access to information can make in people’s lives. We’ve identified nine additional trends from this year’s competition that further the concept of what a public library is or can be in today’s society.”<br />
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The nine trends are:<br />
1)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Libraries are their communities<br />
2)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Productive partnerships<br />
3)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Libraries as placemakers<br />
4)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Creative culture catalysts<br />
5)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Aspirational and accessible<br />
6)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Libraries breathe and grow<br />
7)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Transparent and light-filled<br />
8)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Connected to the environment<br />
9)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Boundless<br />
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These are the very things we are trying to achieve for the Plainfield community! Visit the <a href="http://plainfieldpubliclibrary.org/about/building-expansion-planning.aspx" target="_blank">Building & Expansion Planning web page</a> to learn about the planning process!<br />
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Julie Milavechttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04077269028581739962noreply@blogger.com0