The staff and trustees of the Derry Public Library don’t like surprises, unless they’re at the end of a book.
With the help of Public Works Director Mike Fowler, the trustees are seeking bids for a company to conduct a comprehensive review of all the systems in the library, with the goal of creating a replacement schedule and long-term capital plan.
For example, Fowler said, the plan will estimate how many years the HVAC – heating, ventilation and air conditioning – system has left, with the goal of replacing it before it wears out. “The plan will make sure they budget for it, and lay the path for future capital expenses,” Fowler said.
The library has never had a documentation of its systems, he said.
When a firm is selected, it will have 90 days to review the facilities, he said. He will be part of the process as an adviser.
The town conducted a similar process about 10 years ago, having a comprehensive review of 15 buildings, Fowler said.
He estimated the project will cost $5,000 to $10,000, and said the funds are in the current library budget.
Proposals will be accepted for the Request for Proposals (RFP) for a facility master plan until 4 p.m. March 11.
