On Tuesday, June 19, West Hempstead residents will go to the polls to vote on a proposed project to construct a new library. The project has been created in response to long-standing infrastructure challenges as well as increased space concerns at the present facility. The plan will prepare the library for the future by providing more space for books, materials, programs, computers, improved service areas for children, teens, adults and adults and improved public meeting areas.

The new 26,500 square foot building will be constructed on the 2.3acre site at the corner of Woodfield Road and Hempstead Avenue (known as the "Storage Facility" Site by most residents, and referred to by the Library Trustees as the "Western Beef" site). The Library's Board of Trustees carefully studied all possible alternate sites, including Hall's Pond Park, the land adjacent to the St. Thomas the Apostle Church Chapel (on Hempstead Avenue), the municipal lot on Hempstead Avenue, the "Nassau Mutual Oil" property, the former Friendly's property, and the former "Gum Ying" property. Each of these sites was deemed inadequate due to poor size, shape or location, or by reason of the practical unavailability of the property.

"Our Board of Trustees researched all existing options in an effort to

develop the most cost-effective and responsible solution to the challenges

our library is currently facing," said library Director Regina Mascia.

The anticipated cost of the building project is $10 million. For the average

homeowner, this translates into a cost of approximately $20 per month for the bond issue's 30 year period.

Polls will be open on Tuesday, June 19 (times to be announced) at the Library (252 Chestnut Street). You must be a registered voter (Nassau County Board of Elections) in order to participate in the vote.

In the weeks ahead, the library will be hosting a number of informational meetings to help residents learn more about the proposed building plan. Several newsletters and other materials will be mailed to all residents as additional details are made available. If you have any questions about the plans, or about the vote, please call the Library Director, Regina Mascia at 481-6591.