Published: November 22, 2009 07:05 am      

Northern People: Library loud about remodel

One pressing need is more computer space

FRANKFORT -- Benzie Shores District Library wants a new look for its house of books.

The library plans to remodel the Main Street site in Frankfort. The renovation project would mean more space for children and young adult sections, additional seats, better lighting, expanded stacks and more spots for computer users.

First, it needs to raise $25,000 by the end of this year, and has already received $15,000 of that. In 2010, the library wants to bring in another $75,000 for a fundraising campaign of $100,000. Grant requests, if successful, could bring the project total to $300,000. If the full amount is not met, the library will scale back its plans, said director Cathy Carter.

The project would allow the library to use existing space without adding on to the 4,500-square-foot building.

"We have one big-room library. It's really hard for us to keep quiet areas for people who want to study and still have children's programs," Carter said.

Significant changes in library use over the years include more patrons coming to the library to use the Internet. Carter said during a tough economy, Internet service is one expense families may cut from their budgets. Also, the library has seen an increase in the number of people who use its Internet to file unemployment claims, she said.

Presently, some laptop users have to hunt for an electrical outlet to plug in. It's not uncommon to see cords draped six feet over chairs to an outlet, Carter said. The remodeled library will have tables wired for computer use to avoid that hazard and nuisance.

The plan addresses a multitude of needs revealed in a 2008 library survey.

"It's not just about technology and not just about children's services. Our core is readers," Carter said.

Pat Laarman, a library board member, said an advantage of the project is better lighting to illuminate books placed on lower shelves and more shelf space. A storage space also will be converted into a study room, she said.

The renovation project would require a move to a temporary library location from early January to mid-March while construction is under way.

Carter said the library will move part of its collection and computers to David's Harborside store at 421 Main St. in Frankfort, pending final inspections. It will serve as an interim library while the rest of the collection is stored.