Walls go up on new Geneva Public Library

Rain, sleet, snow, sun - no matter the winter weather, crews from IHC Construction Companies LLC are installing walls, finishing the roof, and more for the new Geneva Public Library being built at 227 S. Seventh St. The prospective opening date is fall 2019.

Crews will soon begin detailing and pouring concrete for floors, and they have also begun plumbing work. In January, they completed steel installation and geothermal work for the system that will heat and cool the new building.

When finished, the 57,000-square-foot building will have 76 off-street parking spaces, a drive-up window, a variety of meeting areas, a community art gallery, and outdoor reading spaces.

The library will feature an enhanced children's area with developmentally appropriate collections, play areas, and learning opportunities for children from birth through eighth grade.

Teens and adults will have access to a variety of library materials and enjoy spending time in quiet reading and study spaces.

Additionally, library service will be expanded to include new opportunities for collaborating, using technology, and experimenting in lab spaces.

Residents approved a $21.8 million building bond for the new library in an April 2017 referendum.

The Geneva Plan Commission and Geneva City Council unanimously approved the new library plans following public hearings held in 2018.

Library officials held a groundbreaking ceremony in July 2018, and in August, IHC Construction Companies of Elgin began work on the new library.

Visit www.gpldnewbuilding.org for a comprehensive overview of the plans for the new library and regular updates on progress.