Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Palm Beach County Library System close a Library during renovation rather than stagger the work to keep the building open?

Construction projects are messy, intrusive and have public safety hazards. Staggering work is simply not feasible.

How can I voice my opinion on what services and resources will go into my local Library?

To share ideas and comments, please reach out to your local branch manager. Public need helps shape our library renovations. You may also reach out to Library Administration by phone or email.

Is there another bond item on the November General Election ballot?

Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation are also requesting voter approval for General Obligation construction bonds. Please visit their website to learn more.

What projects are currently underway for Library Expansion Plan III?

Design work is underway for the new Hypoluxo Branch and for a renovation of the Okeechobee Blvd Branch. Early concept visioning has begun for the Hagen Ranch Road Branch.

Has the County selected an architect for its library projects?

Colomé & Associates, Inc. have been awarded a contract to provide architectural design services for all upcoming library renovation projects, with one exception. Song & Associates are the architectural firm working on the upcoming Okeechobee Blvd. Branch renovation. Colomé & Associates, Inc. were the architects for the Canyon Branch and are designing the new Hypoluxo Branch. The proposed new Main Library project does not have an architectural firm assigned to it. That contract will be put out for bid at a future date at the approval of the Board of County Commissioners.

The Investopedia web site describes a general obligation (GO) bond as a municipal bond backed by the "full faith and credit" of the issuing government. Instead of relying on revenue from a specific project, these bonds are repaid using the government's power to tax its residents.

What is meant by a dependent taxing district?

A dependent taxing district is a local government unit for specific services whose governing board is controlled by a single city or county. For Palm Beach County, the Board of County Commissioners is the governing board. All funds raised by the district are used solely for library purposes. The district must maintain its own reserves and fund its own capital projects. Unspent funding transfers across fiscal years as a balance brought forward

.

How has the Library funded capital projects in the past?

Palm Beach County Library System has used several sources of funding in the past. The primary source is the dependent taxing district. Twice in its history, the voters of the Library District have authorized the issuance of General Obligation bonds to fund two Library Expansion Programs. The library is eligible to collect impact fees from development. The library is also eligible to apply for State of Florida Public Library Construction grants.

How much will Library Expansion Program III cost?

As of estimates from February 2026, Library Expansion Plan III construction costs will amount to $326 million. Estimates for Fiscal Year 2027 have the budgeted cost of $500 sq ft for renovations and $1,000 sq ft for new construction.

Are bonds only intended to pay for the new Main Library?

If approved, bond funds will be distributed across approximately twelve renovation projects and the new Main Library. Currently, renovation work for the first two phases and the new Hypoluxo branch are funded.

How long is a Library branch expected to be closed for renovations?

For full renovations, a branch is typically closed for between 12-18 months. Palm Beach County Library System must empty all furnishings, equipment, and collections from the building before work can begin. The duration of the closure is also affected by the number of interior changes made to the building, plus items outside of our control.