Pulaski Project Advances, Ashwaubenon Gains Long-Delayed Completion Date as Library Board Pushes Forward on Community-Centered Improvements

The Brown County Library Board convened on November 20, 2025, for a meeting that underscored the library system’s role as an essential public good - from digital literacy support to long-awaited facility upgrades across the county.

Adult Services Emphasizes Accessibility, Digital Inclusion, and Human Support

Adult Services Manager Andrea West described the work of a small but high-impact team of eight who collectively hold more than 160 years of experience and assisted patrons more than 15,000 times over the past year. Much of that workload involved helping residents navigate the increasingly mandatory digital world - printing government forms, troubleshooting devices, completing online applications, and guiding new users through basic computer skills.

Board members noted that the department’s role fills widening gaps in social infrastructure, especially for older adults, job seekers, and residents with limited technology access. West emphasized that the work is as much about dignity and patience as it is about information.

Pulaski Branch: A Chance to Expand Rural Access

Architects from Somerville shared findings from their Facility Condition Assessment of the future Pulaski branch - a former Family Dollar building that, despite its retail bones, offers a rare chance to expand library access in a rural part of the county.

The structure can safely serve as a transitional library space with minimal immediate upgrades (around $71,000), while a full renovation with modern design, meeting rooms, accessibility improvements, and future tenant space is projected at just under $2 million.

At 8,000 square feet, the site would more than double Pulaski’s current library, offering far more room for gathering space, children’s services, and community programming. Board members pointed to the project as a meaningful investment in rural equity.

Ashwaubenon Project Finally Gets a Timetable After Years of Delays

Although the Ashwaubenon branch broke ground on May 15, 2024, progress has been slow as the project moved through environmental work, design refinements, and procedural approvals.

This month’s meeting delivered the most significant update in over a year:

• Substantial completion projected for May 19, 2026

• Public opening anticipated in spring 2026

The announcement brought relief after years of delays that left residents and staff anxious for movement on one of the county’s most anticipated public facilities.

Systemwide Facility Improvements Continue

In Denmark, nearly all asbestos has been removed and demolition is complete, with construction advancing toward the next phase.

At Central Library, the extensive HVAC overhaul - a major investment in building safety, sustainability, and energy efficiency is expected to finish about $30,000 under budget.

Supporting Workers & Strengthening Operations

The Board approved a county-funded 2.64% COLA increase for 2025, a modest step intended to help retain staff in a tight labor market. Two long-term agreements - governing resource sharing and youth/inclusive services were held for December to allow for more thorough review.

Executive Director Sarah Sugden reported stable finances heading into the end of the fiscal year, with savings from vacancies and revenue from the Job Center lease supporting operations.

Community Engagement, Safety, and Public Health Initiatives

January will bring the debut of circulating digital radon detectors which is a small but meaningful public health program funded entirely by grants. The library will also host events connected to Wisconsin’s History Makers Tour and the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

Safety Officer Al Hughes noted that colder weather is bringing higher foot traffic and more incidents, but praised staff for compassionate and steady de-escalation. Recent training and security assessments will guide next steps.

Director’s Report: Philanthropy, Legacy, and Literacy Work

Sugden announced a $10,000 unrestricted gift from the Carnegie Corporation, one of several national investments supporting public libraries as engines of democratic access and lifelong learning.

She also highlighted the growing local coalition around early literacy - a community-wide effort involving schools, nonprofits, and regional partners working to ensure every child gains foundational reading skills.

Next Steps

Board President Jayme Sellen continues outreach to identify a tenant for the unused half of the future Pulaski building. The meeting adjourned after routine business.