From the Ground Up: Willard Library

Owner/developer: Morris Loan and Investment Co.

General contractor: Rich Kramer Construction Inc.

Architect: Derington Architects

Engineers: Derington Architects, civil; Edelman Engineering, structural; Latifi Engineering, mechanical, electrical and plumbing

Size: 5,000 square feet

Estimated cost: $814,000

Lender: Morris Loan and Investment Co.

Estimated completion date: May 15

Project description: The new Willard Public Library will open just feet away from its current location in the East Shopping Center. The library will lease 5,000 square feet in a new 8,000-square-foot structure. "We are gaining about 1,200 square feet and a much better layout," said Jim Schmidt, associate director of public services for the Springfield-Greene County Library. Grooms Office Systems Inc. is designing the interior spaces, which will feature new furnishings and more convenient shelf arrangement. The location will have a drive-up window for pickup of books and other items placed on hold by patrons.

Compiled by Tanja Kern. Springfield Business Journal brings you new projects each week. Send project info by fax to (417) 799-0603 or by e-mail to sbj@sbj.net.