Evansdale library projects vie for city support tonight

Mar 9, 2010 — Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier

Matthew Wilde

Mar. 9, 2010 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- EVANSDALE -- Groups with competing proposals to build a new public library in town will square off tonight to convince city leaders and residents why a new book depository is needed.

Shannon Jensen already knows why. The longtime librarian said the 1,426-square-foot facility is woefully undersized and doesn't adequately serve the public.

Jensen said bookshelves are filled to capacity, which means if a new book comes in, another is weeded out. Space for computers is limited -- eight are available -- so patrons often have to wait in line or don't get as much time as they would like on machines. Adult and child programming is restricted because of limited space and equipment.

Jensen believes that deters usage.

"People have asked about story hour for kids and computer classes. We just don't have the space," Jensen said. "If we had a library that lived up to its potential and met the public's needs, I think (usage) would be staggering."

That could happen if community volunteers or developers get their way.

The nonprofit Evansdale Economic Development Corp. wants to build a new $1.7 million library at the former Jewett Elementary, which is part of the larger Community Expansion project that includes a community center and condos for seniors. The EEDC would essentially give the library to the city.

Developer and real estate agent Jim Benda and partners have proposed a $1.5 million library and community center -- which doesn't include books, like the EEDC proposal -- at the Evans Crossing strip mall in the business district. The group would either sell or lease the facility to the city.

Each group will pitch their proposal at a public hearing tonight at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, 123 N. Evans Road. A possible $500,000 U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Libraries Grant is on the line. To be able to apply for the grant, one of the proposals needs the blessing of the City Council in writing, which also requires matching funds from taxpayers.

The Jewett proposal would require only matching funds from taxpayers. The remaining $700,000 would come from grants and private donations, officials said.

The Evans Crossing option requires $1 million from the city to purchase the new library and community center. Developers also have extended a long-term lease option.

At this juncture, the city has not committed money for a new library. If the grant is awarded and accepted, then city funds will need to be obligated.

Jensen and library board President Gary Hansen said it's time that happens. Community members have batted the idea of a new library around for nearly two decades. A Community Builder Plan in 1992 said space was "insufficient."

Evansdale resident Paul Penning hopes a new library is built. On Monday he was able to search for a job online at the library without delay, but there have been times he's had to come back later to get on a computer.

"Local residents really do rely on it," he said. "It is our community center, and we need to support it."

Newstex ID: KRTB-0150-42715168