Appleton Public Library in Wisconsin, US, is set to break ground on its new building at 225 North Oneida Street on 25 July.

The ground-breaking event follows after Appleton Common Council voted late last month to approve a new $40.4m bid for the library construction project.

As the project moves into its construction phase, library and city staff will continue to work with The Boldt Company and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).

Last year, after the initial construction bids for the library were found to be more than $14m beyond budget, the city council was forced to revisit the design.

Earlier this year, new architectural images of the project from SOM were released.

According to officials, the redesigned renderings incorporate community feedback and comprise less excavation, several kinds of meeting spaces that serve dual purposes, and a change in meeting space location.

According to the library, these renovations will provide visitors with more space, collaborative and creative spaces, study and conference rooms, accessibility, security, and sustainability, and an additional flexible floor plan that will accommodate community needs.

In addition, the facility will include a geothermal heating and cooling system, more natural light and overall enhanced lighting, lower shelving, two public elevators, and washrooms.

Appleton Public Library director Collen Rortvedt said: “A public library is a beacon and symbol of a community’s aspirations, and this design builds on the building’s existing legacy to serve our community’s needs far into the future.”