Plans to improve a local library are being scaled back. And, it’s all because the fundraising campaign fell short.

The L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library in Eau Claire had originally planned a $3.9 million remodel. But right now, library leaders say it looks like the library will only have between $1 million and $1.5 million available for the project. That’s less than half the original goal.

Susie Bohrer and her two kids come to the library at least once a week. She says she’s excited about the project.

"I think its awesome. I think the more that we can do to encourage a community that reads is incredible,” she said.

Interim Director John Stoneberg says original plans to remodel the library included expanding the busy youth services area. And, despite a slump in fundraising, he says that is still a #1 priority.

"They especially want more room so they can do more programming right in the library,” Stoneberg said.

Stoneberg says the library also wants to improve the resource-sharing area. Making it easier to get that book you’ve been waiting for.

"When we started in 2000, there were 5 members of the MORE consortium of which the activity is really centered at this library. And now in January of 2009 there will be 46 libraries."

Still, he says plans to re-design the entrance and add a self-checkout may not happen.

Scaling back – at a time when many of us are doing just the same.

"When economic times worsen, we also see improved use of the library because people are watching what they spend,” Stoneberg said.

Stoneberg says the library wants to know how you think it can change the renovation project.

A public meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 31st at 8 a.m.

He says improvements to the library could start in the spring of 2009.