RUMFORD — By a tally of 1,091-492, voters this week favored fixes to the Rumford Public Library instead of expanding it.

In the first of three nonbinding advisory referendums, voters were told that the library must have an elevator and a new restroom installed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Weatherization and utility upgrades are also needed to improve efficiencies.

A proposed addition to the existing building would make the above corrections, increase interior space and provide more parking.

Selectmen offered voters two options, for which grants may be available:

— Correct code violations, make utility upgrades and expand the current library on site. The estimated cost was $2,100,000.

— Only correct code violations and make utility upgrades to the current library. The estimated cost was $854,000.

Selectmen stated on the ballot that the vote would enable them to determine the scope of architectural plans to assist them in making additional “important decisions” on the library’s future.

Tuesday’s vote likely ends months of debate and discussion between selectmen, library officials and members of the Library Growth Committee, which initially wanted to move the library to the Stephens High School lot and put on an addition.

By a tally of 988-646 in the second nonbinding referendum, voters supported construction of a gazebo at no cost at the old high school park.

But on the third referendum, by a tally of 1,045-590, voters rejected extending Lincoln Avenue 930 feet to connect to Swain Road. That project, which was proposed by a resident at a selectmen’s meeting this year, would have cost $250,000.

[email protected]