Walk-through of Conceptual Design
About the Project
In 2018, the Sun Prairie Public Library staff and the Library Board began an exciting journey to expand and renovate the existing Library. Data and community discussions demonstrated that the Sun Prairie Public Library was undersized for our service population. Additionally, surveys, focus groups, and analysis revealed gaps in modern spaces and features in order to successfully meet service goals.
The expansion and renovation project will include many forward-thinking features including: a geothermal HVAC, a microgrid system with solar panels and battery energy storage, a makerspace, a library of things collection, a dedicated teen space, a larger youth services programming room, an outdoor amphitheater programming space, a local history and interest collection, more study rooms, a larger Friends bookstore and café space, exposure to local art, and an atrium space which will bridge the expansion and existing library. The renovation will add an additional 25,075 square feet to the space, making the renovated building 60,600.
In May 2024, the Library Board approved awarding a construction contract to Kraemer Brothers, and a budget amendment was approved by City Council, allowing the construction project to begin. Currently, there is an anticipated completion date of March 2026.
Support Our Project
Helping us on this journey is the Sun Prairie Public Library Foundation and the generous individuals and organizations throughout the Sun Prairie Community that have contributed to the Capital Campaign. The Foundation has a fundraising goal of $3.5M and to date, they have raised and received pledges for $2.4 M. They are over half way there! To learn more about the Sun Prairie Public Library Foundation’s Capital Campaign, please visit their donation page.
History of the Project
For more information on the history of the Library Expansion, including the Architectural Analysis, Conceptual Design and Full Design processes, click here.
Timeline and Milestone Events
Capital campaign--Public phase (2024/2025)
Groundbreaking Ceremony (June 11, 2024)
Construction begins (2024)
- Phase 1 (June 2024 – June 2025)
- Phase 2 (June 2025 – November 2025)
- Phase 3 (December 2025 – January 2026)
- Phase 4 (January 2026 – March 2026)
Ribbon cutting for expanded building! (March 2026)
Construction Updates
Construction began the week of June 4th. On-site work includes site preparation, stripping, installation of temporary road, fencing, equipment mobilization, foundation work, demo of youth services porch and installation of temporary wall.
Access to the Sun Prairie Media Center is now through the Library and Library Community Room.
Documents
Expansion and Renovation Frequently Asked Questions (.pdf)
Construction Documents (.pdf)
Bid Results Presentation (May 2024) (.pdf)
Interior Concepts (December 2023)(.pdf)
Site Plan (.jpg)
Floor Plan (.jpg)
Interior View (.jpg)
Exterior View (.jpg)
Geothermal Objectives and Value (.pdf)
Microgrid Objectives and Value (.pdf)
Revised Goals for Success (April 27, 2023) (.pdf)
Additional Information
If you have additional questions, or would like to support the future needs of the Sun Prairie Public Library, contact Svetha Hetzler, Library Director at 825-0900 or by email at shetzler@sunlib.org.