By Kristen Edson, Library Director, Livonia Public Library
Across five decades, the Robert and Janet Bennett Library has been a cornerstone of our community — a place where residents gather to read, learn, connect, and explore new ideas. I’m incredibly proud of how the library continues to serve our evolving community and expand its diverse range of services, but the time has come to address a hard truth: our building is holding us back.
The Civic Center Library, built in 1988, no longer meets the needs of a modern, forward-looking community like Livonia. If we want to continue providing innovative services, attract new families, and ensure Livonia remains a desirable and thriving place to live, we need to invest in a new public library building.
These limitations don’t just affect library staff — they directly impact what programs and services we can offer to the public.
Investing in a new library helps attract these families, which in turn:
A new library isn’t just about replacing an old, outdated building — it’s about building a stronger, smarter and more connected future for Livonia.
Across five decades, the Robert and Janet Bennett Library has been a cornerstone of our community — a place where residents gather to read, learn, connect, and explore new ideas. I’m incredibly proud of how the library continues to serve our evolving community and expand its diverse range of services, but the time has come to address a hard truth: our building is holding us back.
The Civic Center Library, built in 1988, no longer meets the needs of a modern, forward-looking community like Livonia. If we want to continue providing innovative services, attract new families, and ensure Livonia remains a desirable and thriving place to live, we need to invest in a new public library building.
Designed for the Past, Not the Future
The current library was built for an era before the Internet, modern technology needs and the demand for flexible programming and meeting spaces. Today, the facility struggles to support even the basics of what our community expects from its library.- Leaking roofs and worn-out carpet in public areas are constant maintenance concerns.
- Much of the furniture is original, designed for outdated service models.
- There are insufficient charging outlets for devices.
- The building has limited accessibility for people with disabilities.
- Staff workspaces are inefficient and cramped, forcing storage onto the public floor in areas never intended for those purposes. Adding new technology — like modern self-checkout machines or automated return sorters — would be costly and difficult due to infrastructure limitations.
- The building layout makes it nearly impossible to add a drive-up window or drive-up return system, limiting convenience for residents.
Outdated Spaces Limit Programming and Technology Access
The meeting rooms were not designed with technology-driven programs in mind. Many are too long and narrow, making them uncomfortable for large gatherings. Some rooms are too short for traditional projection screens, and mounting TVs or modern presentation equipment is difficult due to the building’s cinder block walls and lack of planning for modern tech needs. Bringing state-of-the-art presentation tools, hybrid meeting capabilities, and interactive technology into these spaces is impractical under the current design. Creating accessible, engaging outdoor program space for all ages is constricted by the layout.These limitations don’t just affect library staff — they directly impact what programs and services we can offer to the public.
Flexible, Modern Spaces for a Growing Community
A new library would offer:- Flexible, technology-ready spaces to support everything from small group study sessions to large-scale community events.
- Interactive spaces for children and families, making the library a destination for learning and play.
- Technology labs and “maker space” that encourage innovation, job skills development and lifelong learning.
- Convenient drive-up service options and efficient materials handling, allowing staff to spend more time offering personalized service and community programs.
- Better use of art and exhibits to inspire public engagement.
Attracting Families — Strengthening Livonia’s Future
When young families choose where to live, they look for communities that invest in education, enrichment, and community spaces. A vibrant, modern library is a powerful symbol of a city’s commitment to learning, culture and quality of life.Investing in a new library helps attract these families, which in turn:
- Boosts property values.
- Supports local businesses.
- Strengthens community identity and pride.
Aligning with Destination 2028 — Our Strategic Plan
The Livonia Public Library’s Destination 2028 Strategic Plan envisions the library as:- A center for community gathering, with welcoming, adaptable spaces for all types of programs and events.
- A digital literacy hub, where residents can gain technology skills and access modern tools.
- A leader in community engagement, partnering with schools, businesses and cultural organizations to provide innovative programs.
- An example of sustainable operations, with an efficient, cost-effective building designed to meet both current and future needs.
A Library for Livonia’s Future
The residents of Livonia have built a strong, welcoming community. Investing in a new library building ensures we remain a forward-looking city — a place where families want to settle, businesses want to grow, and community members can connect, learn and thrive.A new library isn’t just about replacing an old, outdated building — it’s about building a stronger, smarter and more connected future for Livonia.
