Glencoe Public Library: Up for Renewal
Preserving the best and improving the rest to bring a beloved Glencoe institution into the future
Overview
Located in the heart of downtown, the Glencoe Public Library is a friendly refuge and a source of community pride. For many Glencoe residents, it’s a valued “third place” for connection, assistance, discovery and pleasure. And it has a cozy, welcoming feel.
The library building itself, however, has outlived its ability to support the services and programs Glencoe depends on in the 21st century.
Is it even possible to retain some of the old-fashioned charm while adding up-to-date functionality and comfort?
With a thoughtful renovation, we think it’s possible to have it all. This Glencoe classic is ready for a new edition.
Ground Level
Upper Level
Lower Level
Renovation Goals
- Updated and comfortable patron spaces
- Dedicated quiet spaces
- Better browsability of collections
- Additional small-group study/meeting rooms
- Expanded and engaging children’s space
- Improved usage of outdoor spaces, including a second entry on the south side of the building
- Construction of a large, partitionable community space
- Redesigned lower level
- Remediation of mechanical, electrical and plumbing issues as identified in the 2021 Capital Needs Assessment
- More work space for staff
- Improved building safety and security
- Incorporation of sustainability practices and systems
Key Details
Budget
$17.3 million
Funding Sources
A combination of existing library reserves, funds raised through a capital campaign, private donations, a loan, and a bond referendum
Project Timeline
December 2024 – Modified master space plan approved by library board
2025 – Library board and executive director Andrew Kim work to secure funding
March 17, 2026 – Target date for Glencoe bond referendum. The amount sought will depend on the success of fundraising efforts
Late 2026 – Construction begins
2028 – Target date for project completion
Background
A cornerstone of downtown Glencoe, the library building was opened in 1941. It was expanded in 2001 to add approximately 1,000 square feet to each floor and in 2018 the HVAC system was updated.
In 2021, the library board completed a Capital Needs Assessment that identified over 300 separate building issues totaling over $2 million in repairs and replacements. In 2023, the library board adopted a five-year strategic plan calling for a building renovation to be completed by 2028.
In 2024, the library board engaged the Chicago architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill to create a master space plan that will ensure that the library building can meet the current and future needs of the community it serves. It unanimously voted to adopt a modified master space plan in December 2024.
Photographs from the Library Building’s Opening in 1941
FAQ
Updated March 2025
Why is the library pursuing a renovation?
The library building opened to the community in 1941 and has structural issues consistent with its age. To address these issues and to consider additional enhancements to a facility that is beloved by Glencoe residents, the library board embarked on a process to create a master space plan that it hopes will culminate in a renovation.
Why did the library board select architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) to do the master space plan?
SOM’s comprehensive services and reputation for excellence were primary factors in its selection, as was its interest in bringing a valued but aging public space in line with current and future needs. It was selected by the library board out of a field of 15 firms that responded to a Request for Qualifications for Architectural Services (RFQ) issued in February 2024.
What was the process of developing the master space plan?
Community members and stakeholders were invited to participate in a series of focus groups in January 2023. In separate meetings, members of the library staff identified needs and priorities. The recommendations from the public and the staff informed the master space plan proposed at a public forum on October 14, 2024. Attendees were encouraged to provide feedback during and after the presentation. A recording of the presentation is available on the library’s YouTube channel. Community feedback on the proposed plan also was solicited via a survey conducted in October 2024.
A modified version of the plan—incorporating some of the community feedback–was unanimously approved by the library board in December 2024.
Will the Johnson Room be changed?
The Johnson Room will be more or less untouched. Aside from necessary repairs and minor freshening-up, this cherished historical space will stay the same.
Will the building exterior be changed?
The north and east sides will look very much as they do now. The south and west sides will see alterations due to additions but the look will largely correspond to the building’s original Georgian style. The project will respect the library’s context within downtown Glencoe.
How will the library renovation be paid for?
The library board will explore several funding options, including existing library reserves, fund raising through a capital campaign, a loan, private donations, and a bond referendum.
When will the renovation start and how long will it take?
Renovations are anticipated to begin late in 2026 or early in 2027 and be completed in 2028.
How will the library serve the community during the renovation?
If necessary, the library staff will utilize services and procedures adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic such as curbside materials pickups, remote ready reference, and virtual programming. The staff also will consider the feasibility of temporary locations for limited collection access and in-person programming such as storytimes.