Library Renovation
This year, the library is marking 80 years of public service to the Village of Berkeley. After time in a storage area in Village Hall and then a rented storefront, the current library building opened to the public over 54 years ago, in June 1972. Over the past several years, library administration and our Board of Trustees have worked with outside design, construction, and finance professionals to plan to continue to serve the community for our next 50. After receiving input from the community and an evaluation of the existing building, the decision was made to renovate the current library at 1637 N. Taft Avenue.
Proposed Project
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Replacement of existing roof
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Replacement/upgrade to heating/cooling system.
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Addition of sprinkler system to both floors of building.
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Renovation of restrooms on lower level.
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Expansion of public space on the lower level by approximately 40%.
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Addition of second smaller study/work space on main level
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Addition of small meeting room on main level for library program and community use
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Addition of dedicated Children's Area on lower level
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New community makerspace/arts and crafts room on lower level
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Replacement of exterior windows and entrance
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Renovations to existing spaces, including replacement of lighting and other furniture
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Replacement of shelving/storage solutions for books, A/V materials, technology, tools, and games
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Partial abatement of asbestos currently present in building
November 3, 2026 Ballot
The Library Board of Trustees voted in July to place an advisory referendum on the November ballot. This measure is the first request for new funding in the library's 80-year history. Registered voters in the Village of Berkeley will have the following question on the ballot on November 3, 2026:
This is an advisory and non-binding referendum question. Should the Village of Berkeley, Cook County, Illinois issue bonds on behalf of the Berkeley Public Library in the amount of $4,000,000 to renovate, repair and equip the library building for the purpose thereof located at 1637 N. Taft Avenue?