For more than 50 years, the Bartlett Public Library District has been a welcoming space for learning and discovery, thanks to our dedicated staff and fiscally responsible operations. And we’ve accomplished this while serving our community at the lowest cost per person compared to neighboring districts.
However, our aging facilities, built in 1983, no longer meet the community’s needs. Outdated spaces and furniture limit the library’s potential as an inviting hub for all.
In 2025, we engaged our community and heard from residents through surveys and presentations as we gathered feedback on improvements and funding options. One thing that was clear was Bartlett residents overwhelmingly support the library (85% favorable rating) and would like to see investments in books, technology, accessibility, youth spaces, and programming areas.
The top choice from this feedback for addressing these needs was a $16.3 million renovation and expansion plan, with an estimated tax impact of $120 annually for a $400,000 home or a new library, the second choice, costing $32.5 million with a $239 annual tax impact.
The library has worked to develop potential plans for what these two options could look like. The renderings will be available for viewing on Tuesday, March 17. We invite you to attend one our of upcoming community meetings to review the plans for both a renovation and expansion as well as a new building and let us know your thoughts!
Over the next several months, the library will be refining the plan and considering a referendum on the November 3, 2026 ballot to seek funding approval from the community. We will keep you informed as the plan proceeds. To stay up to date, please visit us at www.bartlettlibrary.org
Sincerely,
The Board of Trustees
Bartlett Public Library District
Click on any of the dates to register.
The Board of Trustees met on Monday March 16, 2026 to review the proposed renderings for additions/renovations and a new building.
Following a small number of suggested modifications, the renderings of both the proposed renovation and proposed new building will be available for download at a later date.