Montauk voters passed a proposition on May 21st, authorizing the Montauk Library’s $7.5 million renovation and expansion project designed to better meet the current and future needs of the community. Overwhelming support was shown for the Library’s bond proposition, with a final vote of 245 (yes) to 81 (no) reported by the Montauk Union Free School District. The Library vote was held concurrently with the Montauk School District’s budget vote and school board election.
“We’re thrilled with the results of today’s vote,” said Montauk Library Director Denise DiPaolo, “and we’re so grateful for the enthusiasm and support the Montauk community has shown for this much-needed project.” The current Library building opened its doors nearly 30 years ago and has served the community well, DiPaolo noted, but the modern transformation in library services and a marked increase in usage necessitated a reorganization and expansion to meet changing needs. With the proposition passed, “The renovation and expansion project can now move forward to expand the space we have to better serve our patrons and to address efficiency, safety, and accessibility issues,” DiPaolo said. Library Board President Joan Lycke added, “The passing of the proposition is a wonderful news for the community. As we look forward to celebrating our 40th anniversary in 2020, we’re delighted to begin this significant project to deliver a new facility with the improved space and services to best serve Montauk not only for today, but for the future.”
After the Library receives approval from the NY State Education Department this summer, the bid process will begin in the fall, with construction slated to begin this December. A late fall 2020 opening date is targeted for the opening of the new building (dates are approximate and subject to change).
Montauk Library Renovation and Expansion Project Highlights
Through community outreach—including needs assessment interviews, surveys, and focus groups—and comprehensive studies and planning, the Library Board and staff developed a plan for the renovation and expansion project. 5,000 square feet of new space will be added to the existing 9,000 square foot building by filling in portions of existing interior double-height space, the addition of a new exit staircase, and a significant new addition and entryway. Highlights include:
• Larger Children’s Library — tripling the current space, with dedicated play area, enclosed program room, administrative space, bathroom, and exterior terrace.
• Teen Room — new enclosed space with comfortable seating.
• Local History and Fishermen’s Center — a 1,600 square foot, one-story addition with exhibit and gallery space and a new entry plaza with vehicular drop off.
• Adult Services — reorganization and expansion of mezzanine level with new quiet study area, café service counter, bathroom, and exterior ocean overlook terrace.
• New additional basement space — providing an expanded Archival room, public meeting room, bathrooms, and storage areas.
• Sustainable (green) features to be incorporated throughout, including accessible landscaped “green roof” space.
Project Cost Summary
Cost of the project: $7,486,371. Approximate monthly tax rate increase of $6.67 per month ($80.40 per year)*
Bond Term: 20 years. *based on average home assessed valuation of $5,000 (market value of $862,069)
Projections provided by Capital Market Advisors, LLC. The Library will also apply for NYS construction grants and accept donations to reduce bond cost.
