The Need
The proposed renovation and construction project is an essential investment in the future quality of life in Wells – and an increasingly urgent priority. The limited size and awkward layout of the library have made it difficult to keep pace with citizens’ rising need for additional services. These include, among others, access to the internet, online e-book downloads, larger collections of print books, audio-visual materials, DVDs, and more diverse learning activities. Upgrading and expansion of the current building is essential if the library is to be able to respond to the ever-changing requirements of a modern, up-to-date library -- and to maintain its role as the town’s primary center for intellectual, cultural and social enrichment.
As our population has grown and the demand for access to the internet and new media has spiraled, the library has been forced to squeeze more and more items and services into a building never designed to accommodate them.
Click for the new project plan that will address these issues for the next 5-10 years.
As our population has grown and the demand for access to the internet and new media has spiraled, the library has been forced to squeeze more and more items and services into a building never designed to accommodate them.
- Book shelves are full and there is no more room for additional shelving.
- Activities with over 15 people must be held in the Children’s Area which limits the youngsters’ access to their space or in the seating area near the entrance which disrupts programs as visitors enter the building.
- The one small meeting room also serves as the Friends’ storage and sorting area, book mending area, staff break room, and more – in all nine different functions.
- Seating for quiet reading and study is extremely limited. Noise from the service desk and the Young Adult area also is disruptive.
- There are only 9 computers with public access to the internet.
- Space for the collection and programs is very tight in the Children’s Area and there is no proper service desk.
- There is no distinct space for students from the nearby Junior High School and High School and no designated computers for their use.
- Staff members are crowded into a small work room where a daunting number of tasks take place.
- Folding chairs, seasonal decorations, etc. must be stored in a small shed behind the building. The custodian also has nowhere to store cleaning supplies.
Click for the new project plan that will address these issues for the next 5-10 years.
