Sawyer, one of the two lions outside of the Oshkosh Public Library, and part of the Hicks Collection. June 26, 2025. PC: Fox 11 Online
OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Oshkosh Public Library is launching a building development initiative aimed at ensuring its facility can continue to meet community needs for years to come.
The library announced the effort Sept. 22, saying the initiative stems from priorities identified during its 2025 strategic planning process. During that process, community members identified the library building as a key area for future investment, including its condition, functionality and ability to support evolving services.
The initiative aligns with the library’s strategic vision, The Library in Your Life, and is intended to keep the library responsive to community feedback.
As part of the effort, the library has selected Engberg Anderson Architects to lead development of a comprehensive, multiphase facilities plan. The firm will work with library staff and community members to evaluate the building’s current condition, identify opportunities for improvement and develop recommendations to guide future investments.
The library is also establishing a Building Development Work Group that will meet from October 2026 through February 2027 to review information gathered during the planning process and help shape recommendations.
“Libraries today serve many more purposes than they did when this building was designed and renovated,” said Darryl Eschete, the library director. “We’re providing access to technology, supporting students and families, creating opportunities for lifelong learning and serving as a gathering place for the community. As expectations continue to evolve, it’s important that we take a thoughtful look at how our facility can best support those needs now and in the future. This process will help us create a roadmap informed by both professional expertise and community input.”
The library plans to host a series of focus groups in the coming weeks to gather additional feedback before concepts and recommendations are developed for the work group’s review. The library said information about participation opportunities, including dates and locations, will be announced separately.
“The library belongs to the community,” Eschete said. “The more voices we hear during this process, the better positioned we’ll be to create a plan that reflects community needs, priorities and aspirations for the future.”
Further information on the project can be found on their website.
Comments