In response to requests by the community for renovation proposals, a public hearing on the Shelter Rock Public Library's future will take place at the Town of North Hempstead's Town Hall, 200 Plandome Road in Manhasset on Tuesday, March 4 at 7:30 p.m.

At the meeting, the library's board of trustees will present current renovation proposals. Key issues identified in the plan are library expansion, technology, and programming. The plan, which is available on the library's website www.nassaulibrary.org/shelter, addresses solutions for the most immediate needs of the current facility, library officials said.

The Shelter Rock Public Library located at 165 Searingtown Road in Albertson opened in 1969, graduating from the small office building where the library began in 1960. A modest renovation took place in 1994; however, as the direction and focus of libraries changed across America, more restructuring was needed. During 2001, a consultant met with patrons and staff to assess needs and to provide a report of recommendations.

Originally, the library had hoped to almost double the size of the current building, but that approach proved too expensive. Instead, library officials have come up with a plan that they say will "create a more pleasant and efficient environment."

That includes new lighting, carpeting, furniture and comfortable seating areas, plus more modern, handicapped-accessible restrooms, a handicapped-accessible story hour room, and automatic doors. Additional computers will be available for public use.

In addition, a new roof will be installed and the loading dock at the rear of the building will be rebuilt. The parking lot will be redesigned slightly to add a few spaces and to bring handicapped parking closer to the building.

The library's board studied such findings for several years, along with an architect, to develop the plan. The board then met with Town of North Hempstead officials. During September and November 2007, public meetings were held to discuss and inform residents about the project.

In addition, public hearings in December 2007 and January 2008 were held to consider and adopt resolutions approving the project at a total budgeted cost not to exceed $6.6 million and requesting the town to authorize the issuance of bonds.

The cost of the proposed renovation for the average taxpayer, library officials said, will be $52.40 per year or $4.36 per month. Those same officials added that assessed values and tax rates change each year and if grants are available, the board will apply for money to reduce the bond.

In the end, the Town of North Hempstead board will monitor public support for the project before voting on the bond.

The board reported this progress and solicited comments at its meetings and in the library's newsletter, as well as on the library's website.

"Here is a chance to benefit everyone at every age within our own community library," said Library Director Andrea Meluskey. For questions about the March 4 meeting, call 248-7363, ext. 240.