MENASHA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Staff at the Menasha library said a future renovation is still in its early stages, but they already want to hear from those who will be using it.
“There’s going to be some things we disagree with, but we’re going with what the community is asking of us,” Menasha Library Director Brian Kopetsky said.
Kopetsky said the renovation won’t add space to the building itself, but what’s inside will be moved to make its use more practical for the community. There may also be rooms added in the interior. He said the initial plans could be changed, however, if they aren’t well received.
“We feel like we knew most of what the community would want, but there’s a couple of pieces where we need to step back and think, we need to rethink that.” he said.
The version of the plan presented Tuesday was based off survey results the library previously conducted.
To let library goers share their thoughts on the current and proposed floor plan, an interactive event was held. It gave people the chance to move around elements of the library. While some aspects of the library including bathrooms and a book drop off will be staying put, other areas will be influenced by the needs of the community.
“Families have not been represented well at these planning activities, so I wanted to make sure I came and gave my perspective with that,” library patron Melanie Kading said.
Residents like Kading tell FOX 11 it felt good to have their feedback acknowledged. She attended the event to make sure staff knew what specific items she wants considered.
“I’ve been bringing my own children and now child care children here for 19 years. So, one of the things I would not want to have change is that personal connection.”
There is a rough price estimate of about $5 million, which Kopestsky says will be mainly privately funded. He expects construction to start early next year.
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