The library is proposing an addition to address space needs for more public computers, computer classes, and a conveniently located handicapped accessible restroom. The addition would also repair and realign the aging west side roof. Outdoor spaces would be enhanced with landscaping, performance areas, gardens and seating. Interest rates are low and construction costs down, making it a good time to use funding from a PILOT program for this permanent improvement. The estimated $500,000 project would be paid off within 10 years, avoiding a large future budget increase, at a cost of only $5.50 more per year in taxes for the average homeowner.

1. ProposedBuildingAdditionFAQs
Q. Why are you proposingan addition?
A. The libraryhaslonghad a needforadditional computers,andourpatronshave repeatedlyaskedfor
computerclasses.Thisadditionwill giveusthe space we needfora minimumof 6 publiccomputers,and
will enable ustoholdcomputerclassesandtutorials.Inaddition,staff willbe able toengage ingroup
learningactivities,whichcanonlyhelpusserve youbetter!
Additionally,we desperatelyneedanotherpublicrestroom;one thatisnot inthe children’sroom.A
convenientlylocated,handicappedaccessible restroomisone of the plannedchanges.
Q. Anything else?
A. The westside of the library isthe oldestpartof the building.If youlookatthe many ellsand
indentations,youwill seetheyincorporatenumerousroof anglesanddrainages.Overthe yearsthese
have become problematicandtend tocause leakingattimesof heavyrain.The roof wouldneedtobe
extensivelyrepairedanyway.Whynotrealignitovera new substructure topreventfuture problemsand
solve ourspace needsall at the same time?
Q. What else will we see?
A. We are veryexcitedaboutourplansto include landscapingthatwill incorporate outdoor
performance, programmingandstory time areas,perennial gardensandbenchesforreadingand
reflection.Ourintentionistoincrease the amountof outdoorprograms,and we hope tobe able to host
concerts“in the garden”on summerevenings.
Q. Why do it now?
A. Interestratesare at an all time low,andbuildingcostshave dropped.OurCaithnessPILOTmoney
(see budgetFAQs) isnotinfinite.Itmade alotof sense toour Board of Trusteesandour financial
advisorstouse Caithnessfundstowarda permanentbenefitforthe libraryandour patrons;one that
will remainlongafterthe PILOTshave come to an end.A tenyear mortgage will be paidoff shortly
before the PILOTsstop.We will nothave to have a large budgetaryincrease atthat time if we use itfor
thisvaluable,butfinite,purpose.
Q. How much will it cost?
A. We have estimatedthe budgetforthisprojectat$500,000.00. At prevailingrateswe estimate paying
$57,000 annuallyfor10 yearsin principal andinterest,coincidentally,almostthe exactamountof our
annual income fromCaithness.
Q. What doesthat mean for me,the individual taxpayer?
A. Thisyear’sbudgetaryincrease amountstoanadditional $5.50 for the average homeowner,ora total
annual librarytax of $147.00. That is $12.25 permonth;or $2.82 per weekforyourentire household!
Books,movies,programs,computers,homeworkhelp,friends,funandmore!Somethingforeveryone
at the BrookhavenFree Library.