LaVale Library Renovation and Expansion Project

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did it cost?
The total project costs $4.8 million

Where did the money come from?
Most of the money for the LaVale Library renovation came from The Maryland Public Library Capital Grants Program, which means only about 10% of the costs come from the Allegany County Government. As it is capital funding, none is available to use for the library’s operating expenses like staff salaries or utilities (because we won’t have it again next year).

Why is it taking so long?
The project is actually on schedule. There was a delay in receiving steel due to the supply chain delays for the additions to the building, but work shifted to renovations of the existing structure until the steel arrived. Construction is scheduled to be complete by mid-summer and the ribbon cutting is scheduled for September 23.

I‘ve heard the term “flagship library,” what does that mean?
The LaVale Library will be the largest in the Allegany County Library System, including the largest meeting rooms, the largest collection, and the largest staff. However, this does not mean that the resources available to those that visit the LaVale Library will be any different than those at any of the other libraries. You can expect the same great service as you have always received.

What was done to the library?
It was a renovation and expansion project. We increased the size of the building from 8700 square feet to 17,300 square feet. All of the building was renovated and all of the systems were updated and modernized to state of the art, efficient systems.

Will there be more parking?
Yes, we have increased the number of spaces from 34 to 65 total parking spaces.

What are the features of the new building?
There are so many new and updated spaces! When the project is complete, the building will feature: Community Living Room (Reading room),
2 meeting rooms with combined 100 person capacity
2 group study rooms
Outdoor Reading, events, and performance patio
Loading dock
Receiving room
Programming space