Life after the library levy

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - Montgomery County voters passed Issue 70, a $187 million bond issue to fund new construction and renovations for the Dayton Metro Library.

“The outcome of this election speaks volumes about this community,” said Tim Kambitsch, Director of the Dayton Metro Library. “It confirmed what they told us: residents want better libraries for themselves and their children.”

The 26-year, 1.56 mills property tax passed 68% to 31% in favor of the issue.

The library is already working with Dayton Design Collaborative, a group of local architects, who will help take the library facilities plans to the next level of detail.

First will be the site selection process for each of the new buildings. Building program statements will define how services to children, teens and adults should be delivered at each location. Preliminary design ideas will be shared with the public for their consideration and feedback. Next, decisions will be made about which buildings will be started first and what sequence should be followed toward completing all seventeen projects. Once the planning phase has been completed, qualified architects will be sought to develop designs to the level of detail required for actual construction.

Details on the plans as they develop and change will be posted on the “Libraries for Tomorrow” page of the Dayton Metro Library website. Visit the website at www.daytonmetrolibrary.org . A comments section will allow the public to make suggestions and comment on the plans at any time.