To further our mission of lifelong learning ...

The Syracuse Turkey-Creek Township Public Library has not expanded its physical space in over 30 years and identified a need to expand and renovate the library to maintain or enhance its ability to retain staff and serve the surrounding community.

The initial 2022 feasibility study explored options to remodel and expand the existing structure while identifying key goals to enable the library to better serve the community. These included larger group meeting spaces; individual study spaces/rooms; improved accessibility and Americans with Disabilities Act compliance; improved public bathrooms; more storage and workspaces for staff; improved parking; electrical infrastructure; a business center; and more.

​At that time, the board determined it would be more cost-effective to build a new building because of the limitations of space presented by the small amount of land available at the present site and the necessity of vacating an alley, which served local businesses, located between the existing library building and the available property.

In 2024, the town of Syracuse presented the Syracuse Public Library with the deed for a property located at 705 N. Dolan Dr. to pursue a new library building. Since then, the library has contracted Arkos Design of Mishawaka to begin the planning process for a new library. As part of the process, the library and Arkos Design will host meetings to gather community feedback to guide the design process.

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Challenges of the Current Library Site

• The existing lift is very slow and does not always work, making it difficult for patrons to access either floor.
• There is a desire for additional meeting and study space for the public that would be offered free of charge.
• The new outdoor patio area does not provide much shade so it can get hot during the summer.
• There is not enough parking in close proximity to the building.
• The existing adult area could use a slight increase in size to accommodate the current needs.
• The existing young adult area could double to triple in size to accommodate the current needs.
• The existing meeting room partition is rarely used because it does not provided a sufficient sound barrier.
• The existing meeting room is not accessible for use after hours.
• The existing upper level restrooms are extremely small and not ADA accessible.
• The existing lower level restrooms are oversized for single-users.
• The staff does not feel they have sufficient space to work on projects in either the lower or upper level.
• The adjacent property is not contiguous t the existing library and require the vacation of an alley and relocation of overhead power lines to accommodate an addition to the existing building.

Tentative Project Timeline

Project details are still coming together. Check back soon for project information and public events.

FAQs

This FAQ is still being developed as more project details are finalized.

What will happen to the old building?

​Syracuse Public Library will sell its current library structure located at 115. E. Main St. The sale would not occur until the library is able to move into its new structure.

Latest Project News

In Progress

Check back later for photos related to the building project.

November 2023 Feasibility Study

On November 15, 2023, Arkos Design submitted a feasibility study for the 705 N. Dolan Dr. property, showing potential library structure possibilities. No designs have been finalized for the potential new library building.

View November 2023 Feasibility Study