But the town board is encouraging the Library Board of Trustees to provide it with a project update. In fact, as Councilman Bill McKenna noted at the meeting, such an update is a requirement as part of the memorandum the board issued when it agreed the library, as a separate taxing entity, has the authority to bypass town and planning board approval. “It might be wise for them to come to one of our May meetings.” McKenna said.
1775 residence
While it hasn’t been discussed with the current library board, Auchincloss said his personal vision, a long way down the road, would be to have a new building that “looked like the old building from the street,” but would include modern amenities. Those would include room for small groups, meeting space and things such as tutoring and even a small cafe. The oldest part of the library was a residence, which records say, may date back as early as 1775. However, Auchincloss contends not much of the library is historically significant. He said studies have found there are some features, such as facade work in the front of the library, that are worth saving and could be incorporated into a new structure.
The increasing vocal opposition to the annex project has questioned the scope and suggested improving existing space already owned and in use by the library. But, Auchincloss said it isn’t that straightforward. “The board attempted to go ahead with a major renovation. That cost wasn’t approved by voters.”
Studies have shown the most immediate need is meeting and training space, Auchincloss said. “When the county posted notice on the laundromat, we considered at least fulfilling that aspect,” he said. “It made sense to have a stand-alone building.”
Further down the road, when a future board is faced with what to do with the current building, the annex can be used as temporary space during those renovations.
“When we do, it will be just as open a process as the annex,” he said.
Those opposed to the project are quick to object to the board’s use of an out-of-area firm for the design when there are plenty of local architects. Auchincloss defended the choice, noting plenty of local firms were solicited and interviewed, but the chosen architect was the most qualified for the library’s needs. The board received 17 proposals and ultimately decided to interview six, he said.
“We agreed unanimously that the architect who designed several multi-purpose rooms would be best for us,” Auchincloss said. “It’s about serving the town.”
He said the library and board utilize local resources whenever possible, but that’s not always the most important factor. “We didn’t think shopping local trumped our duty to serve the public,” he said.
At a standing-room-only meeting last month, project opponents expressed concern that adding on the responsibility of another building will take away from what they see as already anemic maintenance at the current library. But, Auchincloss noted recent problems are attributable to hastily designed additions, not lack of maintenance.
Lack of drainage in the rear reading room caused ice to build up. A power failure caused standing water to freeze when a heating element couldn’t do its job. It then thawed and caused a section of roof to collapse. However, repairs resulted in a better roof, he said.
“We continue to maintain the library the way any prudent person would do.”
The library Board of Trustees next meets at 7 p.m., Thursday, April 17 at in the library. Meetings are open to the public.
