Robey Memorial Library open and functioning as expansion project nears completion

by Bob Beach

The expansion and remodeling of Robey Memorial Library in Waukon is nearing completion and the library has now opened the expansion for use by its patrons, conducting business as usual throughout the entire facility.
The expansion project has more than doubled the size of the library and the added space has been used to add more public computers, a comfortable reading area, private study rooms, new restrooms, a large community room and much-needed office and storage space.
And books. Lots and lots of books. Library Director Rick Meyer reported that over 2,700 new items have been added to the library's collection. Meyer said that some of the new items were selected based on patron requests, others to "fill out" certain authors, while some reflect his personal interest in history. Meyer added that the library received a "great deal" from the book distributor, which included 40% off the cost of the books, along with protective plastic covers on the books and barcoding, which saved considerable time and expense.
Prior to the expansion, Meyer said that new additions to the library's collection had been displayed together, but since there were too many recent additions to make that practical, new items have been marked with orange and red stickers and shelved normally. Meyer added that, even with all the new materials, the additional space and added shelving leaves plenty of room for the library's collection to continue to grow.
Meyer said that there are several things that remain to be done before the project is complete, mostly on the exterior of library - the patio on the east side of building needs a railing and stair access installed, and green space around the library will need to be filled in. He added that he would like everything to be "just so" before setting a date for a formal grand re-opening and open house event.
Meyer also mentioned one unresolved matter involving parking at the library. He said that the City of Waukon has promised funds for the construction of a parking area on the north side of the building, but the Library Board has asked the City to consider using that money to instead add several parking spaces on the east side of the building and use the remaining funds to install solar panels on the roof of the building. Meyer said that the panels would save enough money in energy costs to pay for the panels in 10 to 15 years.
Library patrons can continue to use the main entrance on the south side of the building or the lower level entrance on the east side and use the elevator to reach the main level. The east entrance will be locked at 6 p.m. unless the community room is in use. The upper level east entrance will remain closed until railings can be installed this spring.