By Brooks Banta (D-Smyrna), Kent County Levy Court First District Commissioner and current Levy Court President
During my almost 14 years serving the citizens of northern Kent County on Levy Court, I have had the opportunity to participate in several momentous occasions. Another such milestone will occur on Tuesday, June 29 when the Kent County Library facility will officially reopen in its new home at Long Acre Village just north of Woodside.
More than 20 years ago, Kent County started the familiar bookmobile service to bring library books to the people residing in rural areas. Over a period of 10 years, the volumes of books and videos circulating through the mobile library grew to a point where an actual building was needed to house them all – the Kent County Public Library was born.
I vividly remember when the lease was signed for the “temporary” library in the 25-year-old vacant building located on U.S. Route 13 next to the Johnny Janosik furniture store. At that time, Levy Court committed itself to setting aside capital project money every year to eventually build a permanent library building. Now 10 years later, that day has arrived and the County Library is ready to move into the 10,000 square foot end unit at Long Acre Village featuring a unique auburn-colored metal roof, cupola, and semi-circle patio. The patio has since been enclosed and interior fitted out to accommodate shelving, bathroom facilities, computer terminals, office space, and meeting room.
Last October after considering several locations, Levy Court decided to purchase the building unit for $1.8 million plus another $300,000 for furniture, equipment, and related expenses. All of the funds for this project came from real estate transfer taxes set aside over many years. Transfer taxes are generally paid in equal amounts by the buyer and seller of real estate whenever a property is sold-they are not annual taxes based on property assessment.
The Levy Court had previously rejected a proposal by the City of Dover to establish a jointly operated anchor library next to City Hall. The plan would have closed the County library, merged the staffs, and required a project contribution of $3.2 million by the County for the $24 million anchor library project, along with annual operating costs. I personally think the Levy Court Commissioners made the right decision and this highly functional new facility proves it.
The move will require the existing County Library building to be closed for several days this month, followed by a “soft” opening for the new facility, and culminating with an open house beginning at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, June 29 followed by an official ribbon cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. I cordially invite you to attend.
