Mukwonago library wins partial $238,000 state grant for planned renovation

Library Director Abby announced May 6 that Mukwonago Public Library has been selected for a partial award under the state’s Non‑State Grants for Local Projects program and that the state Buildings Commission was being asked to award $238,000 toward the library’s renovation.

“I did of course request the entire amount of $2,000,000,” Library Director Abby said, and she asked trustees to contact Buildings Commission members before their May 13 meeting to advocate for the award. Abby said the library board and its capital campaign will continue fundraising for the remaining local share.

The director said the grant program requires the applicant to secure at least half of the project cost from non‑state sources and to demonstrate a shovel‑ready design. The library requested the full $2 million but received a partial award; the Buildings Commission must finalize the allocation. Abby said the board had already lined up local commitments, including a village resolution signaling $2,500,000 in local support that strengthened the application.

The award, if approved, will reduce the amount the village would need to borrow for the project and thereby lower the debt that could affect taxpayers, Abby said. The library will continue to pursue fundraising and complete outstanding administrative items, including a land‑use restriction agreement noted during the presentation.

No formal action was required of the committee at the meeting; Abby asked trustees to contact the Buildings Commission and said staff could redistribute a contact sheet and explanatory materials to the board.