Frankfort Library Board Reviews Capital Wish List, Advances Reading Room Project

Frankfort Public Library District Meeting | Dec. 11, 2025

Article Summary: The Frankfort Public Library District Board of Trustees discussed a wide range of potential future facility upgrades, including soundproof studios and virtual reality spaces, while moving forward with the bid process for the ongoing Reading Room project.

Frankfort Public Library Key Points:

• Capital Priorities: Trustees reviewed a list of potential upgrades for FY 2025-2026, including a soundproof podcasting studio, a virtual reality space, and improvements to meeting room acoustics.

• Reading Room Update: The bid advertisement for the Reading Room project was released on December 11, with a pre-bid meeting scheduled for mid-December.

• Village Requirement: The Village of Frankfort is requiring that any landscaping removed during the Reading Room construction be replaced “in-kind” upon completion.

FRANKFORT — The Frankfort Public Library District Board of Trustees on Thursday, December 11, 2025, advanced its facility planning on two fronts, reviewing a wish list of future capital priorities and receiving a status update on the imminent Reading Room renovation.

During the discussion on capital priorities for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the board reviewed a diverse list of potential enhancements to the library building and grounds. Ideas discussed included resolving sound issues in meeting rooms, installing a drop ceiling, and creating a soundproof room or studio suitable for podcasting and music.

Tech-focused proposals included the creation of a Virtual Reality (VR) space. Exterior and environmental concepts were also on the agenda, such as an outdoor stage, a land conservation project, landscaping improvements, and an awning for the front entrance.

The board also discussed youth-oriented upgrades, specifically a “tactile/movement/play space” and a calming room.

Regarding the Reading Room project, Library Director Amanda Kowalcze reported that the timeline remains on track. The project was advertised for bids on December 11, with a pre-bid meeting set for December 18.

However, Kowalcze noted a stipulation from the Village of Frankfort regarding the construction permitting process. The Village requires that all landscaping removed to facilitate the project must be replaced “in-kind” after construction is complete.

In other building news, the board discussed the “Quarterly Maintenance Review Checklist.” The Building and Grounds Committee recommended conducting a broader maintenance assessment to determine how current needs fit into the library’s long-term facility picture.