Library Expansion Rationale

The Ely Public Library is currently constrained by an undersized facility that no longer meets the needs of our growing community. Limited meeting space and overall capacity restrict the library’s ability to provide modern services and robust programming for children and adults. Expansion is essential to ensure the library remains a safe, accessible, and vital community hub. 

In collaboration with Solum Lang Architects, the Library Board incorporated priorities identified through past public meetings and community surveys while maintaining a strong focus on cost efficiency. A single-level expansion was determined to be the most practical solution, allowing the library to operate within current staffing levels while significantly increasing its footprint and adding a substantially larger community meeting space.

The proposed community space will support large events, serve multiple city functions, and be available for public rental. The Library Board has presented the proposed design to City Council and they have approved placing this to a bond referendum on the November 3, 2026 General Election ballot.

 Benefits:

The proposed project will increase the library’s footprint from approximately 5,030 square feet to 11,830 square feet.  The proposed expanded facility is pictured below and will   provide:

• Benefits to our expandes space will increase the library’s footprint from approximately 5,030 square feet to 11,830 square feet. The expanded facility will provide:
• A large, fully ADA-compliant, community room for library and city events, with seating for up to 240 people and is available for public rental (3,650 square feet)
• A dedicated adult area with comfortable, quiet reading spaces (1,460 square feet)
• Support spaces (serving kitchen, bathrooms, storage, etc. (1,070 square feet)
• Enhanced energy efficiency through environmentally responsible design and construction methods
• Installation of a fire sprinkler system
• Expanded youth services areas, including a designated teen space
• Increased collection capacity with improved accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs and walkers

Information Sessions:

Join us for conversations about this project by attending an Open House or Pop-Up Information Session. 

Open Houses will be more of a formal presentation about the process, project and timelines. Questions will be answered and suggestions gathered. These occur at the library monthly on different days of the week.

Pop-Up Sessions will be more informal gatherings to address any questions and gather suggestions regarding the Library Expansion and Community Center Project. These take place at various locations city-wide concurrently with other events.