Community Input

You can view the proposed site plan, interior layouts, and renderings by Lien & Peterson here. 

You can view the slides from the library’s Community Input Session presentation here. 

Share your feedback through our Google Form here. 

Email feedback with us by emailing buildingproject@fallcreekpubliclibrary.org

FAQ – Updated 4/6/24

How & when did this project begin?

• In July 2023, the library board approved a Strategic Plan for 2023-2027. Throughout our research in establishing our strategic priorities, investigation of the functionality of our current facility was a common theme in the feedback we received. We identified our facility as one of our strategic priorities.  
• This led to a facilities assessment completed by our library system director and Wisconsin state expert in library buildings and spaces. The facilities assessment revealed numerous accessibility concerns and showed we are deficient in overall space for programs, materials, and services a library should be providing. To be competitive for future building grants, preliminary designs and a feasibility study with an architect are required.  
• In August 2023, The Village Board approved the Library Board’s decision to hire Lien & Peterson Architects to complete a feasibility study and proposal for a new library building.  
• In October 2023, a building advisory committee was formed, and work with Lien & Peterson began. 

Were other sites considered? Why are we considering the proposed location? 

After careful consideration and thorough evaluation of numerous potential building sites, the building committee and our architectural & engineering firm identified several key factors that guided our decision: 

• Lot Size 

The chosen site provides the largest amount of land compared to other potential locations. This ample space offers many opportunities for the design and layout of the multi-use building and the incorporation of outdoor amenities and green spaces for recreational and community use. 

• High Visibility Location 

The selected site is in a high-visibility location in our village. This offers several advantages, including increased accessibility for residents and visitors, greater exposure to community events and programs held at the facility, and enhanced community engagement. 

• Contingent Land Donation

This significantly reduces the upfront costs associated with land acquisition, allowing us to allocate resources more effectively toward the construction and development of the multi-use building. 

What is the purpose of building a new public library? 

The purpose of building a new public library is to create a modern, accessible, and dynamic community hub that meets the evolving needs of our residents. The new library will provide expanded resources, services, designated spaces, and programming opportunities for people of all ages. 

Why do we need a bigger library when we have the internet? 

The internet is great and has become a central part of our daily lives. We provide free internet at the library year-round whether we are closed or open. However, the internet does not provide a physical space for community life and engagement. Additionally, our rural area has unreliable internet and limited availability; many households do not have access to fast or affordable internet. Besides providing access to the internet at our location, there are many tangible things the library offers, including: 

• Opportunities to meet others, learn new things, and engage in Fall Creek community life. 
• Space to study, take tests, conduct meetings, apply for jobs and certifications, tele-medicine, host events, play, and work. 
• Fast, free Wi-Fi which can be accessed outside of the building as well as Wi-Fi hotspots patrons can check out to bring the internet home with them. 
• Space which often serves as a much-needed respite from Wisconsin weather as a free-to-use place that is warm in the winter and cool in the summer. 
• Physical materials including books, movies, and magazines, still account for most library checkouts. 
• Tech support to help community members maneuver and adapt through constant tech challenges and changes. 
• A place for community members to connect safely online. 
• A one-of-a-kind space in our community where people of all ages are engaged. 
• Affordable, accessible printing, scanning, and tech support. 

What will happen to the old building? 

That will be determined by the Village of Fall Creek Board of Trustees. Likely, it will be up for redevelopment to promote the downtown business district.  

How will the new library be accessible? 

The new design of the library will ensure that everyone can get to the library, maneuver within it, access materials, fully participate in activities, and feel welcome.  

• Safe pedestrian walkways. 
• Wider aisles clear of obstructions. 
• Wider doorways, automatic door openers, and accessible door hardware.  
• Well-identified wheelchair-accessible parking areas, pathways, and entrances. 
• Restrooms that provide caregiver flexibility.  
• Adequate lighting.  
• Private study areas for customers who need to bring personal equipment, require the assistance of a reader, or are distracted by noise and movement. 

I love this library! How can I donate in support of this project? 

Please contact the Library Director, Charlene Conradi, to discuss your contribution. Checks made out to the Library Building Fund and dropped off or mailed to the library.