Cost of proposed Mars library still unknown after merger vote

A proposed move for the Mars Area Public Library has renewed interest following the Adams–Mars merger vote, but one question remains unanswered: What will it cost?

Library Director Janae Callihan said it is too early to put a price on converting the building that houses NexTier Bank in downtown Mars into a larger library.

In a follow-up email responding to questions about the project’s cost, Callihan said the library expects to explore municipal support, private donations and grants. How much each source might contribute remains unclear.

Voters in Mars Borough and Adams Township approved the merger Nov. 3, reopening a path for the proposed move. The communities are set to become Mars Township in 2028.

Committee to begin working through details

The library is reconvening its building committee, and Callihan said she hopes members can meet once or twice before the end of the year. She expects much of 2027 to be devoted to planning.

The effort will involve the library board and representatives from both municipalities. Callihan said the committee will bring in people with expertise to evaluate the building while library staff focus on what patrons need from the space.

The proposal would give the library more room for children’s programs, tutoring, meetings and its collection. Library leaders have said the current building struggles to accommodate those activities as community demand grows.

Details about the space and its features will need to be worked through as planning proceeds.

Public input expected

Callihan said she expects the library to hold a public forum as plans develop, giving residents an opportunity to ask questions and offer input.

She acknowledged that residents may have different opinions about the building’s appearance and which features should take priority. She said the library and its municipal partners have a responsibility to spend public money carefully.

“One thing I can promise is that this won’t be some well-kept secret!” Callihan wrote.

For now, the project remains in the planning stages, with no cost estimate or opening date available.

“We want to make sure that we build a library with intent and purpose that will last us 100 years down the road,” Callihan said.