- The circulation desk of the Defiance Public Library is not handicap-accessible for either patrons or staff. According to the American Disabilities Act guidelines we cannot continue to use it as a desk once we finish our interior renovations and we could not in good conscience ask our patrons or staff to use a main desk that is not accessible to all the people we serve on a daily basis. Using the desk as a display case, seating, or storage would irreparably damage it and we would rather see it properly preserved as a beautiful piece available for view by the public. A committee of concerned citizens has been formed to find a permanent, safe, and lasting home for it.

 

- Yes, our magazine and newspaper collections will remain a (very important) part of our renovated library. Their shelving will be moved out from the Reading Room (read about our Reading Room plans below) so it is more convenient, well-lit, and accessible for browsing.

 

- When our library was built in 1904 & 1905, the Reading Room contained quiet space for reading, studying, and reflection featuring a beautiful view of the Maumee and historic Defiance Fort Grounds. Over the years shelving has been thrust into the Reading Room because of a lack of space for materials, covering up the view and eliminating seating space. When the library is renovated, the Reading Room will be restored to its original state allowing for more comfortable seating and work space and once again uncovering the windows that overlook the river and grounds. Our architect has even located the original doors that hung in the Reading Room and these will be restored.

 

- Our major goal in completing this renovation is to preserve our library for future use. Thus Historic Preservation is a large aspect of our plans. Our architects have referenced and researched the original blueprints, photos, and drawings of our library in order to restore original features. The footprint of our building will remain the same, along with the distinctive red stone and stained glass fixtures. Our renovation is focusing on how the library is organized inside, including shelving, computer terminals and program space.

 

- According to a study done by library professionals, the Defiance Public Library circulates and uses materials that would normally fill a 25,000 sq. ft. facility...we are currently operating in a 17,000 sq. ft. facility. Our circulation, materials, and usage have only continued to increase over the past 10 years and are expected to rise higher in the future. The DPLS Board of Trustees proposed the addition of a second branch within the Defiance city limits that, along with the Historic Main Library, could help in serving our growing patron population. But with concerns in funding, the Board turned its attention to first reorganizing the Main Library. Our demand continues to increase each year and so a second branch may again be considered, but not for several years.

 

- The Historic Fort Defiance Grounds, the grounds surrounding the Defiance Public Library, are undergoing the City of Defiance's Sewer System Revitalization throughout the summer of 2010. The Defiance Public Library's grounds are owned and maintained by the city of Defiance and all construction decisions dealing with the grounds are under their jurisdiction. This also includes the trees and landscaping along the Riverwalk. If you have further questions about the work on the library grounds, please contact the city's Parks and Recreation Department at 419-784-2745.

 

- No. Capital funds which have been saved and designated for capital projects only are providing $700,000 of the project, thanks to the fiscal management of the DPLS Board of Trustees. $67,000 in grants have been awarded for the project. The remaining funds were raised through private donations from the community.

 

- We plan to begin construction on the heating, air conditioning, and electrical in the summer of 2010. Because donations were made through pledges over a 3-5 year period, the project will take place in phases over the next 5 years.