Lynn Library work now on back burner

LYNN – Plans to expand the city?s main library are on hold while city construction efforts focus on shoring up Classical High and finishing Manning Field.That means library trustees must wait at least until next year to find money to pay for an architectural study detailing library expansion plans.?We don?t want to proceed without a plan,” said Chief Librarian Nadine Mitchell.The library received the state Board of Library Commissioner?s approval a year ago to start planning major renovations, including acting on a consultant?s recommendation to add 6,000 square feet to the 34,000 square foot library.The 106-year-old North Common Street building needs more space for library activities as well as handicap access improvements and upgrades to its fire alarm, security and electrical systems.The “knob and tube” electrical control board was designed to operate a simple lighting system and electrical controls for the library boiler.?I think it?s got Thomas Edison?s name on it,” said city Inspectional Services Director Michael Donovan.The library also needs to boost its book borrowing figures by opening the stacks housing 148,000 books to the public. Most of the collection is off limits to readers who can request a specific title from library workers.Without a modern fire alarm system, Mitchell and her coworkers periodically run evacuation drills and use hand-held air horns to alert the public to an emergency.On busy afternoons, nearly 200 children are studying in the library or spending time in the children?s room waiting for rides home.?The lack of a modern alarm system is more a threat to library resources than the public,” said city fire safety officer Robert Bourke.The library has money to make improvements, including $1.1 million set aside from the sale of three branch libraries. Those funds and money raised by a foundation established to work with the trustees will pay for renovation work, but not until Mitchell and the trustees get the green light to proceed with an architectural study.Mitchell said Lynn is among many communities on a waiting for state money. The state library board is awaiting a new round of state funding approval from Gov. Deval Patrick.Without money to pay for the renovations, Mitchell and her staff are focusing on short-term improvements, including the restoration of five paintings.?That?s something we can accomplish,” she said.