Top 3 things to know about Valley Stream library’s new all-purpose room

Space is tight at the Waldinger Memorial Library, says Library Director Mamie Eng. Most of the library’s in-house activities spill into the Children’s Room. Clubs and organizations fret not having meeting space or scramble for the limited space available. Fortunately, for Valley Stream patrons a bit —scratch that—a lot more breathing room is coming.

“This building was never designed with a meeting room in mind or any spaces for separate groups,” said Eng. “That has hindered us.”

Thanks to $1.2 million in state funding secured by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, the public library will soon gain a much-needed all-purpose room. Here are three key takeaways.

1. The all-purpose room will take over the existing patio

The new meeting room will encompass roughly 1,200 square feet of space and replace the library’s outdoor patio—a space used by patrons but rendered useless in bad weather and during winter. The idea, argues Eng, is that, unlike the patio, this room will be open year-round, offering a versatile space for meetings, programs, and quiet study. Outfitted with lounge furniture, it will double as a reading nook when not in use. Folding tables and stackable chairs will provide flexibility, while a built-in presentation and audio system will elevate events and meetings.

 

 

The all-purpose room, at an asking price of $1.2 million, will replace the outdoor patio to provide year-round space for meetings. Facility not drawn to size.

Data Wrapper Illustration created by Juan Lasso

2. The state capital grant program cuts cost for the village

The project, one of dozens throughout the state, is funded through “The Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology” program. The capital grant program injects funds into municipalities for public projects, ranging from road repairs to solar-powered lighting. This is not to be confused with the routine yearly boost public libraries get in state aid. The CREST program, argues Eng, is far superior from a cost-saving perspective. The village only has to cover any cost overruns on the $1.2 million-dollar project —unlike the seasonal funding cycle, where the village must fully match state contributions. That’s why, with a tight library budget, Eng and her committee usually think small with new upgrades. Not this time.

“This is a real substantial input of money,” said Eng. “Enclosing our patio will be less of a disturbance to the public and answer a lot of needs.”

 

 

While patrons like Michelle Parcells can use the library-provided computer in a separate cubicle, there is not private space for groups.

Alice Moreno/Herald

3. The room won’t be built overnight

The library director said the construction of the all-purpose room is still in the early stages and suggests a two-year time frame. But Eng says the investment is worth every dollar. The space crunch isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s holding the library back in terms of the number and variety of programs it can offer.

“This library building was built in 1962. At the time, the original storefront was a library on Rockaway Avenue and they thought this was a huge building,” said Eng. “It’s not a huge building anymore.”

With space currently at a premium, concerts, plays, and performances, and certain education programs have been off the table. Eng is looking to change that with the new investment.