RUMFORD – The Rumford Public Library Growth Committee voted Wednesday to hire a consultant to determine whether a capital campaign would be doable.

The committee and library trustees have been studying the possibility of renovating the century-old Carnegie library or constructing a facility for several years. A survey of library users was also conducted.

Scott Simon Architects recommended just over a year ago that a new library be built, but the committee has yet to decide if that’s the best move.

The Bangor consulting firm of Gary Friedmann and Associates was hired at a cost of $15,000, contingent upon funds provided by the library trustees and the successful receipt of a grant. A special trustees meeting was set for 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, to take up the funding issue.

The Bangor firm was chosen largely because of the person who will conduct the feasibility study. She is Barbara Trafton, a former state legislator and Rumford native who successfully helped raise funds for an expansion project at the Auburn Public Library.

“I feel that Barbara Trafton is someone who knows the community,” said committee member Linda Macgregor.

Jane deFrees, another committee member, said it was absolutely critical that the feasibility study be conducted to determine if a capital campaign should move forward.

Early cost estimates for the construction of a new facility by Scott Simons came in at just over $2 million. The library also has the promise of the town to keep the site of the former Stephens High School open for five years while decisions are made on the next step the library should take.

The feasibility study, expected to be completed by the end of the year, would include such things as conducting interviews with potential donors, submitting possible capital campaign timelines, learning the library’s image in the community, identifying volunteers and leadership for a capital campaign, and submitting a final report on the findings.

Trustees and librarian Karl Aromaa determined several years ago that changes were needed in the services provided by the local library. Although the primary purpose of the library is to make books available, its role has changed to a more technological orientation. The library is also used as a gathering place for programs and meetings.

Also, limited parking has been an issue.

The committee was formed about 18 months ago to devise a plan that best represents the interests of a majority of townspeople.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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