Library expansion could be model for state, nation

BONNERS FERRY — A wheelbarrow full of books started the humble beginnings of the library 100 years ago in Bonners Ferry.

The current building built less than 40 years ago furthered the county’s commitment to life-long learning. Now, the library receives more than 79,000 user visits a year.

To celebrate their centennial this year, the Boundary County Library is discussing their vision for the future — Boundary County Library Central.

“Your hometown library with a global reach,” said Boundary County Library Director Sandy Ashworth. “More than a library...unlike any other expansion.”

Boundary County Library Central could potentially be an education commons with a business development center, colleges, a technology lab, the Boundary County Extension office and meeting rooms.

“We can share space, cost of operations, technology, resources and be able to work together,” said Ashworth.

The expansion of the library would basically be a bigger box that stays flexible over time, said Ashworth. The building would blend with downtown, be functional and manageable.

With planning still in the

See LIBRARY, A-3

LIBRARY

From A-1

conceptual stage, ideas range from adding more floors to the current library to building over the parking lot.

If the addition is above the parking lot, it might be two floors with a year-round, snow-free parking lot beneath. An elevator and covered parking area would help seniors and disabled patrons fully utilize the library.

The design of the building will come to fruition this winter after graduate students from University of Idaho’s interior design program and College of Architecture produce plans as part of a service learning project.

Actual construction is a two to three years out said Ashworth. Right now, Ashworth is gathering input from a wide range of stakeholders, including the Boundary Economic Development Center, Community Coalition for Families, Idaho Commission for Libraries, North Idaho College staff, University of Idaho Extension and Community Partnerships program, KVRI, local educators and Frontier regional managers.

A big piece of the expansion is technology. The expansion would require very high speed internet and Frontier has already made a proposal to meet that need, said Ashworth. Envisioned technology would allow for video-conferencing for committees, training and classes.

A technology lab would contain a variety of high-tech equipment, including a 3D printer, and offer hands-on learning. The small tech labs are being installed worldwide. Three other libraries in the U.S. have small tech labs said Ashworth.

With their extensive network of partnerships, the Library Board of Trustees is listening for ways to support the community, meet the community’s needs and reach everyone. Ashworth said the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

“By expanding the uses, there are other pots of money to go for,” said Ashworth. She explained they will be applying for grants.

The library also has about $50,000 in its replacement asset fund to start the project.

“We are very well aware of taxing issues,” said Ashworth. “It’s been on the table a couple times in the past.”

The expansion may require a bond election, a first for the library. The current building was built under a lease-purchase agreement.

With groups working together and pooling resources, more could be done with less and costly duplication could be avoided, said Ashworth.

“Definitely unique to the state and would be a model,” said Ashworth. “Not only a model for the state but also for the nation.”