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This year will bring improvements to the outdoor spaces at the library. We will begin in Spring, 2023 and remain open during construction. To help you plan your visits, we will keep you informed of changes and progress.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and sign up for our e-newsletter to get updates on this project and everything happening at your library.  

landscape & Outdoor renovation Goals

IMPROVE SAFETY

  • rearrange traffic flow from Main Street and throughout the parking lot
  • create buffer and barrier between Main Street and library’s front lawn space

MAKE CHANGES WHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY REPAIRING OUTDOOR SPACES

  • a fiscally responsible way to use public monies by doing both at the same time
  • parking lot needs major repairs, shrubs and landscaping are dying/need replaced

CREATE USABLE OUTDOOR SPACE IN THE MAIN STREET CORRIDOR

  • attract families to the library and the city
  • align with other construction projects and plans in Ravenna to create outdoor spaces
  • front lawn and back lot event space become more usable for the library and others

ENHANCE THE BUILDING’S AESTHETIC AND HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC ASPECTS

  • removing plantings that obstruct the building’s facade
  • the iconic front staircase becomes an intentional library event space and an everyday space for city visitors
  • historic portion of the library becomes a focal point on Main Street

"We want to bring young families into Ravenna. Creating family-friendly spaces would not only accomplish that but also enhance downtown's green spaces. We sit on the east end of Main Street welcoming people downtown. We're one of the first impressions outsiders get of our city."   

-Amy Young, Director

Landscape Renovations
  • Improve safety in rear parking area with improved traffic flow
  • Make changes while simultaneously repairing outdoor spaces
  • Enhance the building
  • 3D rendering of Main Street plans
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is it a good plan to remove the Main Street parking spaces?

We studied parking on Main Street to make sure we were making the right decision. 
This chart breaks down the 1.3% use. We are also adding parking spaces in the rear lot as part of that renovation. 

Where is the landscaping funding coming from?

The landscaping project will be funded by Ohio’s Public Library Funds and annual capital improvement funds automatically provided by the state, which we must use. Every year, all Ohio public libraries receive 1.7% of state revenues, and because this amount has increased in past years, there is more to use than previously budgeted. We are excited to reinvest this money into improving the building and its grounds for the benefit of our community.