Capital Plan Grant to fund new boiler, windows at branch library

The Rockford Public Library Board of trustees voted at its March meeting to approve a bid from Mechanical Inc. to add a Thermal Solutions 1 million BTuH gas- fired hot water boiler to the Montague Branch Library’s HVAC system. The new boiler will be tied into the existing controls system and current electric boiler allowing the library to switch from electric to a more cost-efficient gas boiler for the heavy heating months. The addition was funded in part by a $100,000 Illinois State Capital Plan Grant awarded in 2009.

The Capital Plan Grant will also help provide funding for other infrastructure improvements at the branch which may include new windows and resurfacing the parking lot. The Administration and Board extend their thanks to Rep. Chuck Jefferson, who worked diligently to submit the request and then release the funds (a constitutional challenge to the Capital Plan Grant monies delayed disbursement). The library has three years to complete the project, but estimates all work will be completed by early 2013.

“The Montague Branch is one of three locations owned by Rockford Public Library and has historical relevance in its architecture and role in the neighborhood,” said Frank Novak, Executive Director of Rockford Public Library. “These infrastructure upgrades represent a cost-savings and a commitment by the Board and Administration to maintain the Montague Branch’s beauty.

About the Library

The Rockford Public Library, founded in 1872 as the second library in Illinois, currently has six facilities, including the Main Library and five Branch Libraries. The Rockford Public Library’s mission is to enhance community life and development by informing, educating, entertaining, and providing cultural enrichment to all people of all ages by collecting information to address the diverse interests of our dynamic community.

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