# Rockford Krause Memorial Library Renovation Opens October After Eight Months of Construction

Historic Library Gets Major Makeover While Preserving Original Elements

The Krause Memorial Library in Rockford is getting a major renovation that will more than double its size while preserving historic elements from the original building. City officials confirmed the $11.2 million project remains on schedule to open in October after eight months of construction work.

Rockford City Manager Thad Beard confirmed the renovation preserves historic elements while significantly expanding the librarys capacity and services. Each room has its own culture and texture to it based on its age and the services provided in that room that will take your breath away Beard said.

The renovation includes preserving the librarys interior wall decorations in the original entryway and built-in bookshelves while adding new spaces including an expanded childrens area. Its the same in some ways. Youre going to find when we start putting the finishes in there that we tried to really preserve a lot of the feel of the old library Rockford City Council Member Cheryl Scales said.

Budget Comes In Under Projection

The renovation will cost taxpayers less than originally projected. The city will levy 0.85 mills this year instead of the full one mill library increase. Rockford Mayor Tammy Bergstrom expressed satisfaction with the construction progress during the city council tour.

So its really coming together. Very exciting. And it looks like they are on schedule. So very happy about that. And it looks like they are going to be beautiful Bergstrom said.

Library patrons like Robin Elias are eagerly awaiting the reopening particularly for the expanded book selection and larger childrens space. I cant wait. So excited. I come in here. And I can only get a couple of books at a time because as you know the selection is limited here Elias said. The play area for my grandchildren. So I think its been tough waiting until the end of the year for it.

The Krause Memorial Library was last updated in 1989 and has been waiting for an expansion for over 20 years. With the area population nearly doubling since then the wait is finally over according to the Kent District Library.

The project includes adding new spaces including an expanded childrens area. Construction began in fall 2025 with completion expected by late 2026. The City of Rockford has secured $5 million in public and private funds toward the total project costs estimated to be $11.7 million.

On November 5 City of Rockford voters overwhelmingly approved a millage proposal of 1 mill that will provide critical funding for the project. Fundraising efforts are ongoing to cover remaining costs.

Community Impact

The library renovation will provide expanded book selection and a larger play area for children. The expanded childrens space will serve families with young children who previously had limited options for play area.

The renovation also includes improvements to accessibility and the addition of a drive-up book return. These features will make the library more accessible to all community members including those with mobility challenges.

The Krause Memorial Library serves as a community hub for Rockford residents. The renovation will transform the facility while honoring its historic character and preserving the communitys connection to this important neighborhood institution.