Appleton finally breaks ground on library renovation

APPLETON (WLUK) -- After a decade and a half of planning, construction is finally set to begin on the renovation of the Appleton Public Library.

A groundbreaking ceremony took place Tuesday afternoon. Key players from the city of Appleton and those supporting the library took part in a ceremonial groundbreaking at the site of the old library downtown. The existing building will be incorporated into the new state-of-the-art structure.

“It's an exciting day for the city of Appleton and for this project long road to get here but we're excited to break ground and move to the next phase,” said Appleton Mayor Jake Woodford.

Woodford says to expect demolition work on the site and construction equipment to move in in the next few weeks.

“This is a major project for the community it's a $40.4-million library and the fit and finish the quality of this building is going to reflect that and also the versatility of the space is going to reflect that,” said Woodford.

About $26 million of the $40 million project is being locally funded. Of the remaining $14 million, $12 million will come from donations by The Friends of the Appleton Public Library, and $2 million will be federal COVID-19 relief funds. That's why library staff members are encouraging everyone who misses the event to check out renderings and videos to get an early look at what to expect.

The Friends of the Appleton Public Library indicate it has already secured $8 million in pledges, two-thirds the way to its goal, with Microsoft president Brad Smith, a graduate of Appleton West High School being the lead donor.

“This library I think will be one of the crown jewels of Appleton it'll bring people together not just to learn but a place to meet. It's really an exciting moment I think to think about Appleton's future,” said Smith.

The Appleton library will continue operating out of a temporary location on the city's east side until renovation is complete.

The new library is expected to be ready in late 2024 or early 2025.