Funding
for a New Library Building

Funding

How much will the new library cost?

• A referendum for an EXPIRING 6th Cent Tax will be placed on the November 2008 ballot requesting $43.25 Million for the project.
• The total library project cost includes the following elements:

  Construction ----------------------------------------------------------------------$ 30,350,000  
  Land acquisition----------------------------------------------------------------------3,762,000
  Architect --------------------------------------------------------------------------------1,978,820
  Collection Augment (books and materials)----------------------------------1,600,000
  Shelving, equipment, furniture --------------------------------------------------2,486,000
  Fees, Consultants ------------------------------------------------------------------1,128,755
  5% Contingency Fee --------------------------------------------------------------1,941,079
  Operation and Maintenance -----------------------------------------------------5,000,000
                                                  Total Project-----------------------------------$48,246,654
                     Building sale & Private Contributions---------------------------5,000,000
                                                  Ballot Request--------------------------------$43,246,654

• These estimates include consideration of probable construction cost escalation over the life of the project.

How will it be paid for?

• The Library Board of Trustees will propose to include a ballot measure for an SPET
  (or "Expiring 6th Cent" tax) in the November 2008 election.
• The Trustees will be soliciting formal approval from the County, the City of Casper and the towns of Bar Nunn, Edgerton, Evansville, Midwest and Mills to place the optional sixth cent of sales tax on the November ballot.

Learn more about the Expiring 6th cent tax...

What factors affect the cost of a library?

• Libraries require more structural reinforcements than an office building, due mostly to the need to support the weight of books. They are designed to support 150 pounds per square foot.
• Libraries experience considerably more foot traffic than conventional office buildings.
• Public libraries are built to serve many generations of citizens, so durability and high quality are a priority.
• Libraries have high electrical and technology requirements due to progressing technology.