New library construction has faced setbacks but community enthusiasm hasn't waned

By Brenda Molen Davis, Guest Columnist

As the end of my 10-year term on the Board of Trustees for the Bozeman Public Library approaches, I would like to thank my fellow trustees, the Library Foundation & Friends, Alice Meister and her superb staff at the library, and most importantly, the citizens of Bozeman who have so energetically supported the excellence and national recognition that our library has attained. It was a thrill to go to Washington, D.C., and receive the highest award given to libraries from First Lady Laura Bush.

As I reflect upon the many achievements of our library, I want to take this opportunity to give you a progress report on the building of the new library.

Since the library bond was passed in June of 2001, the beautiful site adjacent to Lindley Park was purchased and an extensive cleanup plan was completed last summer. A formal certification from the DEQ is expected within a few months, and we are confidently awaiting this final approval.

Just last week, Gallatin County approved $660,000 as Bozeman's share of the $1 Million in county-wide support of libraries. In addition, we have been fortunate to have had the support of the Montana congressional delegation who provided us with half a million dollars in funding so far, with additional proposals now before Congress.

The private fundraising also continues to grow, despite a daunting economic climate, again with thanks to widespread community enthusiasm. The Bozeman Public Library Foundation has raised $2.5 Million and is confident of another $1.5 Million by the end of 2004.

The construction of the new library was put out to bid on March 11, and the bids were opened on April 27. To no one's real surprise, but to everyone's disappointment, the bids were higher than expected. This was due in part to a radical spike in building costs, especially in steel and petroleum. The Trustees are meeting with Overland Partners, the architects, and Martel Construction to make the necessary design changes that will bring the costs down without compromising the integrity of the building.

It's a challenge, without a doubt. But the resolve of everyone involved to build a new library that we are all proud of is stronger than any of the stumbling blocks that we encounter.

We are returning the bids while we continue the task of revising the plans. We will put the Library out for a re-bid in January; a time that we are told is advantageous. The Trustees are committed to a prudent use of public and private funds, and we are taking all the necessary steps to break ground and stay within budget.

It has been my privilege to serve during this exciting decade in the history of Bozeman's Public Library. Like so many people I have met during my term, I look forward with great anticipation to the new library building as a centerpiece for our exceptional community.

Brenda Molen Davis is

Chair of the Bozeman Library Board of Trustees.

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