We appreciate that School District 47 and the Crystal Lake Public Library are working together to seek a more affordable solution to address the library’s space needs.

For years, the public library has discussed expanding its current location at 126 Paddock St. near downtown Crystal Lake. Library administrators have said the existing 40,000-square-foot building doesn’t have enough space for books and other materials, computers, meeting rooms and parking.

Earlier this year, the Library Board proposed a $28.6 million expansion project to double the size of the library. Designs called for demolishing the house at 17 McHenry Ave. and the oldest part of the existing library building to make way for additions and a two-story parking garage with 200 spaces.