Library Expansion Project

Overview & FAQs

The expanded/renovated library will total a net 21,028 square feet will include: 

• Single floor, energy-efficient floor plan
• Updated building systems including new HVAC and solar roof panels
• Flexible programming space totaling 140 seats
• Maker Space and Discover Area for youth, families, caregivers, and individuals
• Four study rooms
• Computer Area including remote workspace
• Larger teen area and a patio for outdoor programming

“No matter background or economic level, the expanded library will continue to provide resources and services for current and future residents along with visitors to our city,” continued the Mayor. “The expanded and renovated library will benefit our community for many years to come. I look forward to hearing stories from people who will experience the library firsthand along with their children and grandchildren,” shared Mayor Ryan Schroeder.

The final 2024 project cost estimate by FEH Design is $11.2 million, which includes design, construction, furnishings, decor, construction financing costs, and contingency funds. The City of Delavan capital funds and DAPLF fundraising commitments total approximately $2 million leaving a balance of up to $9.2 million needed from other funding sources. The City of Delavan has been awarded a USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Loan that has an interest rate not to exceed 2.5%, locked-in. This will finance the remaining costs and will be closed after completion of the project.

We are very excited to be working with such an experienced team on this legacy building project!

Project Cost and Financing

The 2019 ballpark cost estimate for the project was about $9 million. The final 2024 estimate by FEH Design is $11.3 M, which includes design, construction, furnishings, and décor. The working financing plan was that the City would be responsible for about $8.3 M with the $3 M remainder to be obtained from grants and public contributions.

• In 2022 the City of Delavan applied for and was awarded a USDA Rural Development loan to underwrite the financing.  The interest rate is 2½ %, well below commercial rates.  The loan conditions include that the USDA review and approve the project’s final building and site plans before the project was put out for bid, that local funds be utilized before drawing on the loan, and that the project be completed by June 30, 2027.
• DAPLF has so far secured $1.3 million in pledges and donations.  It has set a goal of raising another $500,000  by the end of 2025.
• The City has applied for several State and other grants.  One $115,000 award from the Otto Bremer Trust (Minnesota) was received, which was used toward the purchase of the needed property south of the Library.  However, it was disappointing to learn in 2024 that Delavan had been denied grant funds from the Wisconsin Flexible Facilities Program, monies specifically earmarked for improving public infrastructure, including libraries.  Delavan was encouraged to reapply in the 2025 award cycle.
• The bids for the building construction came in at around $9 M. Adding the architect’s estimated $2.1 M cost of furnishings puts the total project cost in line with the $11.3 original estimate. This assumes no unexpected large cost increases due to inflation and the effects of tariffs.

In summary, the City of Delavan and DAPLF commitments total about $10 M.  This leaves $1.3 M still to be raised from grants and additional fundraising.  Any shortfall would have to be addressed by reducing some of the planned features of the building.

FAQs

Are you tearing down the old building? 

No, the old building will remain intact. The top floor of the building will be utilized by the Delavan Historical Society, while the bottom floor will continue to be used by library staff, as well as the Friends of the Library.

Where is the library now? Are you still open? 

Yes, we are at our temporary space at 830 E Geneva Street Suite B. The temporary space is smaller in scale but it continues to provide the same collection, programs, and services (including Tax Aid in 2026). If you can’t find what you are looking for, we can still place holds from other libraries!

How much will the expansion cost?

The expected estimate given by FEH Design was $11.3 million. For the full breakdown, please see the project financials above.

What happened to the white house on 4th street? 

The city purchased 121 S 4th Street and was later demolished in Fall 2024 as part of the expansion project.

Will the Aram name remain on the front of the library building?

Yes, the library expansion will be connected to the south part of the building, the side nearest the old parking lot. The Aram building, or original library, will be renovated and the library rebranded to the Delavan Public Library upon completion of the project. The Aram name will remain on the front of the building facing Walworth Avenue.

New building, new brand…

In 1908, the Aram Public Library opened with a gift from Mr. and Mrs. James Aram who bequeathed $20,000 in the names of their three daughters who tragically died young. With our new expansion, the library will be rebranded as the Delavan Public Library honoring our community and businesses who have contributed to this new space. “The library will be inclusive and accessible to all,” shared Library Director, Michelle Carter. The Arams, along with previous donors, will be acknowledged with a prominent donor area in the new building.

Following our mission, we continue to inspire and connect with people in our community and throughout neighboring counties. Our “new” name supports our commitment to Accessibility and Equity, especially as we blend our traditional bricks and mortar building with the opportunities of the digital age.

For construction updates, please visit our blog.

Original project documents (August 2021) and Building Plan

Library Expansion Map