$ 5M Bentonville Library Expansion Includes Art Gallery and Outdoor Space

Designs are in progress for the expansion of the Bentonville public library.

Why is this important: Bentonville residents want more from the library. About 77% of Bentonville voters approved $ 4.97 million for the library in the April Bonds election.

Details: Site plans show a 28,555 square foot addition to the existing 38,500 square foot building, as well as outdoor program space.

• Feedback library staff and the public indicated that a large meeting room was needed, MSR Design’s Kristilyn Vercruysse said last week at a library meeting.
• A community hub have resources for local events and social services.
• The design team also seeks to integrate into the plans more study rooms, an activity room for all ages, more space for genealogy and the makerspace.
• The idea is to make spaces as multifunctional as possible, said Vercruysse.

1 cool thing: Expect the library to embrace the arts and cycling communities. It will have a gallery space showcasing local artists, numerous bicycle racks and an outdoor area with water fountains for cyclists.

And after: Construction could start as early as early 2023 and will likely last 16 months.

Go further: Read the full library needs assessment here.

Go back: The Fayetteville Public Library completed a major expansion earlier this year. Read about it here.