We are very pleased to report that the proposed plan to build a new library for Manhasset is moving ahead. It is a project with quite a few parts, all of which must be completed before the whole plan can be put before the voters in a referendum. Here's a report on our progress to date.

Jay Lucker, an expert in space planning for libraries, was called in to consult with the library director and staff and to make recommendations to the architects as they began the design of the new building. His analysis addresses all the shortcomings of the present and not only corrects these problems but includes additional space for new services as well. It is a plan for a library that will serve the community for the foreseeable future.

Based on Lucker's space plan, Roger Smith and Kevin Walsh of the architectural firm of Burton, Behrendt and Smith, are in the process of developing a design for a new library facility to be built on the present lot and the Brown property to its south along Northern Boulevard. At this stage it is nearing completion, and we are confident that the new library will be an outstanding asset for Manhasset, combining beauty, function and additional parking space.

Several important tasks have already been successfully completed. An Environmental Quality Review was conducted by the firm of Elkowitz and Freudenthal. It was found that the building project would not have a significant impact on the environment and a Negative Declaration was adopted by the trustees. Further, a Traffic Study was conducted by Robert Eschbacher of Eschbacher Engineering, P.C. Current traffic usage was monitored and future changes, based on the proposed new library's size and its larger parking lot were analyzed. It was found that the new Manhasset Public Library building would not have an adverse impact on local traffic and parking conditions.

Before we reach the stage of presenting a completed plan to the public for a referendum, a contract must be finalized with Thomas Brown to buy the Brown property owned by his aunt, Elizabeth Brown, and currently leased by the Adam Art Shop. As Mr. Brown is the conservator for his aunt, the process of acquiring court approval for this mutually acceptable purchase will take some time. While there is little doubt that the required approvals will be obtained, it is necessary to postpone a public referendum on the project until the fall.

As always, any interested resident is welcome to come to our board meetings. Notice of those meetings is posted in the library and on our web page (www.nassaulibrary.org/manhass).

The Manhasset Public Library Board of Trustees

Seval LaRocca, President

Carol Ascrizzi, Vice President

Francis J. Hone, Financial Secretary

James E. Pelzer, Trustee

Senetta Koch, Trustee