Officials surveyed more than 1,300 people online over the past month to learn what improvements are most needed.
“We need more space for library programming,” Senft-Paras said. “We have a lot of students and professionals who use our facility.”
If the plans are finalized, the cost of the expansion will range from $3 million to $5 million. Funds for the upgrades will come from the library’s building and operation funds.
Officials plan to bring new technology to Woodburne for Centerville students. New computers, white boards and 3D printers will be added, if the plans are approved. Students will have collaborative spaces and new desks.
“It will give the students who study in the library a place where they can work on their assignments together,” Senft-Paras said. “They can rehearse their presentations and Power Point projects.”
Centerville’s plans come as library upgrades are being made throughout the region, including Dayton Metro Libraries’ system-wide $187 million overhaul.
The expansion plans for Woodburne Library include additional outlets for people to plug in their laptops and tablets. Officials also want to create larger teen and children’s sections, Senft-Paras said.
Judith Keegans, who said she visits Woodburne Library every week, is in favor of the expansion because of more people moving to the area.
“The library seems to be busy every day,” she said. “It would be nice if we had more room.”
Construction will begin in 2016, if the plans are approved.
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