Missouri River Regional Library’s staff gives update on proposed renovation and design plans

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce held a Friday coffee to give an update on the Missouri River Regional Library tax levy regarding plans for a proposed building expansion.

People could attend over Zoom at 9:00 a.m. or in person at the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce building at 213 Adams St.

In Friday's update, staff members with MRRL said with renovations, they plan to add at least a floor for an outside green area along with an additional floor for pod-casting and newer technology equipment.

MRRL says while constriction is going on they would be closed for two years but they're working now to find a location to operate out of during that time.

In April, the Missouri River Regional Library's Board of Trustees announced it voted to place "Proposition Library" on the Aug. 8 ballot in Cole County.

Proposition Library or "Prop L" is an increase to the library’s operating levy to renovate and expand the main library building in Cole County and increase library collections, services, and programs.

According to the library, "Prop L" would increase the average 2.5% property tax for most households. However, MRRL says on its website, the library has not had an increase in its levy since 1964.

The ballot language for "Prop L" is expected to say:

“Shall the twenty cent ($0.20) per hundred dollars assessed valuation tax for the Jefferson City-Cole County Library District be increased to thirty-five cents ($0.35) per hundred dollars assessed valuation?”

MRRL also says after years of serving the Jefferson City and Cole County community, the building is finally showing its age which is why it's proposing the increase.

MRRL also listed the following in its renovation focuses:

Accessibility

Increasing accessibility in the building, including larger bathrooms and elevators that meet current codes and allow wheelchairs and strollers room to maneuver, as well as shorter shelves and wider aisles to provide better access to materials. 

Community

Proposed small and large indoor meeting spaces for the community, including study rooms and maker spaces. 

A technology training lab and business incubator for job skills development, comprehensive computer training, and business support.

Inviting outdoor spaces including a reading garden and programming spaces to accommodate library and community events for all ages. 

Technology Infrastructure

A stronger and more robust electrical and networking infrastructure to meet the needs of technology advancements. 

Outreach

Expanded outreach services, including locker systems throughout Jefferson City and Cole County.