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The East Baton Rouge Parish Library appreciates the media’s assistance in sharing the great things we’re doing, but we would like to offer some clarifications to make the information even clearer (“Do we really need a new south branch library?, May 12).
Construction costs for the Main Library at Goodwood came in well under budget with a savings of more than $1.3 million for the total project. Estimated at $35.850 million, construction came in at $34.067 million. The total project (with design fees, FFE, etc.) came in at $42.193 million verses the $43.502 million budgeted. And since we are pay-as-you-go, the project is totally paid for, just like all of our capital projects.
We are actively working to keep our promise for a new community branch in south Baton Rouge. Area residents have been very supportive and we appreciate their patience. Site selection and desktop analysis studies of possible properties were conducted in 2014; this information is still being used. We are now seeking assistance from commercial brokers to locate a suitable site in this densely populated area. Once a site is found, the library will not pay a commission.
We will continue to update sites, services and resources to meet technological advancements and our community’s ever-changing needs. This year, we are asking the Metro Council to support a millage renewal of 11.1—the same amount approved by the voters in 2005 and 1995. This millage funds all operations including capital improvements. The Branch Assessment Project (ebrpl.com/cip.html) outlines future capital projects under consideration for our oldest branches. Since we operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, bonds are not part of any funding discussion.
Libraries are so much more than boxes of books. Please visit your library or log on to ebrpl.com. The possibilities are unlimited.
Spencer Watts, Library Director
East Baton Rouge Parish Library
