The Mount Prospect Public Library is planning to renovate the second floor in 2026 as part of the strategic plan. Driven by collection analysis and patron usage and feedback, this project is a key initiative to help achieve one of the library’s goals: to create more welcoming and user-focused spaces for the community.

The renovation will focus on key areas to make the library more user-friendly. This includes expanded, dedicated teen spaces to create more opportunities for study, collaboration, and meet-ups, as well as additional individual and group study and meeting rooms for adults. A new technology lab will be added to support technology programming and provide space for quiet individual use. To improve navigation, public service desks will be relocated, and the library’s collection will be rebalanced to better serve patrons.

The second floor was added to the library in 2004, followed by seven new study rooms in 2016. However, since the addition of these new areas, the library has seen a significant increase in patron requests, often leading to a lack of available space during peak hours.

“Over the last two decades, the way our community uses the library has evolved and we’re committed to providing patrons the modern resources they need,” Board President Kristine O’Sullivan said. “With this renovation, we’re making it easier for patrons to find the materials and useful spaces they’re looking for.”

The updated space will keep defined areas where patrons can collaborate and areas that are quieter for individual work and casual reading. This includes the relocation of the genealogy collection to a more dedicated space and creating a designated quiet reading area.

The project is estimated to cost approximately $5 million and will be funded through the library’s Capital Projects Fund, Gift Fund, as well as grants and donations. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026 and is expected to be complete by the fall. The project will be carried out in phases, with the second floor remaining open during construction to minimize service disruption. Bid information will be available on the library’s website in October of 2025.

For more information, visit mppl.org/updates.