Where is the 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.

"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

landsacpe project faq:

• Why are we rearranging traffic flow in the back?

  SAFETY! Right now, pedestrian traffic intersects automobile traffic. The new arrangement increases pedestrian safety.

• Will Locust become a one-way street?

  NO! Locust street remains unchanged. Traffic from the book drop will exit onto Elm and from there can turn right or left or continue straight onto Locust. We have no power and no need to change traffic on Locust Street.

• Why isn't the American Legion on your map?

  Because its geography isn’t relative to our changes. We’re good neighbors with the American Legion and frequently use each others’ parking lots when needed.

• How will the library pay for these changes?

  This project is 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.

• Why are you doing this project now?

  The parking lot has been repaired multiple times but needs completely replaced. It’s fiscally responsible to make any upgrades at the same time we’re repairing the parking lot and replacing dying shrubs. We have the capital improvement funds to make it happen and it’s a much-needed investment. We had hoped to complete these improvements in 2023 because the parking lot is in such disrepair. 

• Will you remove the Main Street parking spots?

  Not at this time, no. The city is developing a new design plan for downtown and until that plan is revealed, we will hold off on our request to reuse those parking spots. We would still like to have increased green space and seating but we also want to ensure that our Main Street plan aligns with and enhances the city’s vision for downtown.

• What will the library do with the pavilion in back?

  That space can be used for many of the library’s events that we now hold indoors. Children’s events will be especially ideal in this space. The pavilion is designed with a storage area for tables and chairs and can be set up to accommodate a variety of events and needs. Eventually, we want to make that space available for the same kind of public use that we allow with our meeting rooms.