Turning The Page
We’re turning the page to something bigger. The future home of the Churubusco Public Library
will be more than a building—it will be a vibrant community hub where ideas grow, relationships
are built, and opportunities are within reach for all. With guidance from the Churubusco
Community Coalition, this project is about creating a space that reflects the heart and potential
of Churubusco.
We anticipate a lot of questions about the project, and we want everyone to stay informed.
Check out these FAQs as a start.
will be more than a building—it will be a vibrant community hub where ideas grow, relationships
are built, and opportunities are within reach for all. With guidance from the Churubusco
Community Coalition, this project is about creating a space that reflects the heart and potential
of Churubusco.
We anticipate a lot of questions about the project, and we want everyone to stay informed.
Check out these FAQs as a start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the project?
We plan to renovate the former Churubusco State Bank building into a robust, updated, relevant
public library and community center.
Why choose an old building for a new library?
Plain and simple…The cost of upgrading an existing building will save us approximately 40-60%
of the cost of building new. We also love the location in downtown Churubusco.
Is this a new project?
This project isn't new, it's been in the planning stages for years with little activity. While the hope
of a new library is not new, everything else including the project team, the architectural team,
the community supports, the librarian, the Library Board of Trustees, and the design plans are
all new.
Is the town involved?
This is not a town project. We have their blessing and they have passed along past ownership
to the Churubusco Community Coalition. The project is being created and supported by three
entities including the Library Board of Trustees (government institution), the Library Adhoc
Committee (a strategic community based group), and the Churubusco Community Coalition
(nonprofit organization).
How much will this project cost?
The estimated cost to completely renovate is about $1,700,000. This will be broken down into
phases, as needed.
Where will the money for the project come from?
We are seeking donations from supportive entities/businesses and individuals along with
community foundations and other grant partners. It is going to take the entire community to
make this project a success.
Will my property taxes increase to pay for the renovations?
We are not expecting, nor seeking, additional revenue from property tax. It should be noted,
however, that we are the second lowest funded library in the State of Indiana. A community who
invests in its library with beneficial programs, literature, and other supports is infinitely more
wealthy than one that does not.
Will my property taxes increase once the new building is open and up and
running?
Again, we are not expecting, nor planning on, additional revenue from property tax. As noted
above, our current funding is dismal and the library does not have enough funds to run the
community center on their own. Private donations will build up the library endowment fund, held
at the Community Foundation of Whitley County. This endowment fund will provide a new
funding source. Further, we must seek other sources including grants, fundraisers and private
donations.
Do we really need a new library?
In a word – YES! Every thriving community has a thriving library—a place where the community
can gather, converse, read, exchange ideas, use a printer, access resources and technology,
access the internet, aspire, imagine. We encourage you to go and visit other communities our
size that have thriving libraries. You'll see the difference.
What is the timeline?
We hope to have the first phase completed so the Library can move into the first floor by
January 2027, possibly earlier, but It depends on several factors namely funding and
construction.
What will happen to the old library?
We are in talks with entities who may be interested in purchasing the building outright.
We plan to renovate the former Churubusco State Bank building into a robust, updated, relevant
public library and community center.
Why choose an old building for a new library?
Plain and simple…The cost of upgrading an existing building will save us approximately 40-60%
of the cost of building new. We also love the location in downtown Churubusco.
Is this a new project?
This project isn't new, it's been in the planning stages for years with little activity. While the hope
of a new library is not new, everything else including the project team, the architectural team,
the community supports, the librarian, the Library Board of Trustees, and the design plans are
all new.
Is the town involved?
This is not a town project. We have their blessing and they have passed along past ownership
to the Churubusco Community Coalition. The project is being created and supported by three
entities including the Library Board of Trustees (government institution), the Library Adhoc
Committee (a strategic community based group), and the Churubusco Community Coalition
(nonprofit organization).
How much will this project cost?
The estimated cost to completely renovate is about $1,700,000. This will be broken down into
phases, as needed.
Where will the money for the project come from?
We are seeking donations from supportive entities/businesses and individuals along with
community foundations and other grant partners. It is going to take the entire community to
make this project a success.
Will my property taxes increase to pay for the renovations?
We are not expecting, nor seeking, additional revenue from property tax. It should be noted,
however, that we are the second lowest funded library in the State of Indiana. A community who
invests in its library with beneficial programs, literature, and other supports is infinitely more
wealthy than one that does not.
Will my property taxes increase once the new building is open and up and
running?
Again, we are not expecting, nor planning on, additional revenue from property tax. As noted
above, our current funding is dismal and the library does not have enough funds to run the
community center on their own. Private donations will build up the library endowment fund, held
at the Community Foundation of Whitley County. This endowment fund will provide a new
funding source. Further, we must seek other sources including grants, fundraisers and private
donations.
Do we really need a new library?
In a word – YES! Every thriving community has a thriving library—a place where the community
can gather, converse, read, exchange ideas, use a printer, access resources and technology,
access the internet, aspire, imagine. We encourage you to go and visit other communities our
size that have thriving libraries. You'll see the difference.
What is the timeline?
We hope to have the first phase completed so the Library can move into the first floor by
January 2027, possibly earlier, but It depends on several factors namely funding and
construction.
What will happen to the old library?
We are in talks with entities who may be interested in purchasing the building outright.