October 2023    Facility Network Replaced   To take advantage of the Library's fiber internet, the entire building was professionally re-wired and components such as switches and firewalls were replaced with secure, modern alternatives. In addition, the building went from one WIFI access point on each level to a total of five: two on each level, plus a dedicated outdoor access point in the parking lot to extend free WIFI coverage to off-hours visitors. 

August 2023    Fiber Internet Added   High-speed fiber internet service was added the the building, serving both patrons and staff. 

October 2022    Phase 1 Construction Completed   Main level public restrooms have been completed, inspected, and reopened to the public. Replacement drinking fountains with filtration and bottle fillers have been installed on both levels. Painting has been completed in the main circulation area and front stairwell. Replacement interior 'storefront' (glass and doors) have been installed. Flooring in the vestibule and main public area has been installed. Public service desks anticipated to be delivered in early November!

September 2022    Continued Construction   Bathrooms are nearing completion with tiling work completed, radiant heat installed, and fixtures currently being installed. Replacement drinking fountains have been installed on both levels. Painting has begun in main circulation area, in the front stairwell, and on the lower level. Replacement interior 'storefront' (glass and doors) have been installed as of 9/8/2022. Flooring in the vestibule and main public area will begin to be installed the week of 9/12/2022. 

August 2022    Construction   Various trades have been busy at the library, working primarily in the mornings before we open. Rough plumbing and electrical work has been completed, as has framing for the new bathrooms. Drywall has also been completed, and both painting and tilework is currently in progress. 

July 2022    Prep Work/Demolition   In preparation for needed abatement, various trades were present throughout the library during the week of July 11th. Work included the removal of fixtures in the restrooms on the main level, removal of drinking fountains, disassembly of existing service desk, relocation of data/phone lines, and removal of kitchen area in the meeting room.  

May 2022    Materials Selection, Closure Scheduled   The Library has finished working with interior design specialists at Williams Architects to select materials, finishes, and colors for new service desks, doors, and walls. While the Library will be open through much of construction, the Library Board has approved a closure period of July 18th through July 22nd for abatement work to take place. 

April 2022    Public Bidding- Asbestos Abatement   The Library conducted an additional round of public bidding for the abatement of materials found to have asbestos present during the March 2022 material testing. These materials include caulking around entry doors, joint compound (main floor), and floor tile adhesive (main floor). Abatement will include all areas impacted by the scope of Phase 1, primarily restrooms and center of building from entrance to staff offices. 

March/April 2022    Public Bidding- Phase 1    The Library conducted a round of public bidding in support of Phase 1 work. This public bidding process included seeking qualified bids from trades including electrical, plumbing, and flooring. 

March 22, 2022    Entrance Lighting    Many of the lighting fixtures found throughout the library date back several decades. In order to improve public safety as well as to provide for a welcoming environment, lighting fixtures at the main entrance which illuminate the public sidewalk, entry doors, and vestibule were replaced with modern, daylight-balanced LED fixtures. 

March 2022    Material Testing    Given the age of the building, the Library contracted with Midwest Environmental Consulting Services for thorough asbestos testing of materials throughout in order to properly inform all phases of work and ensure the facility is safe for many years to come. 

December 13, 2021    Construction Management    After inviting proposals from qualified construction management firms, the BPL Board of Trustees selected Shales McNutt Construction of Elgin, Illinois to manage construction of Phase 1 of the library's remodel. 

November 3, 2021    Feedback Survey     A survey inviting feedback from the community was been made available online. The survey included all of the information displayed at the 10/30/2021 Open House. This survey was available for 6 weeks to allow as many residents as possible to provide input. 

October 30, 2021     Open House     Library staff, board, and Andy Dogan from Williams Architects were on hand to meet with residents, provide information, and answer questions they had about the remodel process.