A new proposal is in the works for a new, somewhat scaled-down main library and two branch libraries on the east and west sides of Norman, after voters denied a new $49.5 million main library on a previous effort by a 280-vote margin from more than 11,000 votes cast May 6.

The potential proposal that's been floated before councilmembers, library supporters, chamber members and potential stakeholders would locate the library at the Rhodes Granary site north of Andrews Park near downtown, with surface parking to the north. A west branch could be at the Ruby Grant Park and an east branch could be at 36th Avenue East and Alameda Street.

"No. 1, we have gone through a very concerted listening effort," said Mayor Cindy Rosenthal. "We've been really trying to listen and get a greater sense of what voters would like us to come back with."

Rosenthal said besides talking to Norman residents, a survey was taken of about 1,000 people about what they want in a library. The survey was paid for by the Partnership for Norman's Progress, with campaign funds left over from the previous library referendum. She said the survey would not be available until the group meets again and votes to release it.

"But we pretty clearly heard we need to be specific on the (library) site," she said.

She said a downtown location remains the No. 1 priority for the main site.

Rosenthal said the Rhodes family approached the City more than a year ago about purchasing the property. Other area property owners also have indicated a willingness to talk to the City about selling.

Whether or not the Rhodes site becomes a location for a new main library, councilmembers intend to purchase it, probably at the Sept. 23 council meeting.

"It's a valuable piece of property to the City," Rosenthal said. Other possible uses for the site if it doesn't eventually host a new library include expansion of the municipal complex.

Ward 1 councilmember Bob Thompson said he believes it's a great location for the main library.

"The proximity to the current library is an advantage. And the proximity to the park -- I think it makes sense," Thompson said. "I think it's a natural fit."

Another plus on the Rhodes site is that there would not be a need for eminent domain proceedings.

"I was never a fan of condemnation," said Ward 3 councilmember Hal Ezzell.

Ezzell was vocal in the previous referendum that he found it a stumbling block that there were no library branches included, in spite of Norman's expansive 197 square miles annexed to protect its watershed.

"I think branches are absolutely essential," Ezzell said. "It never made any sense to me (not to have branches.) ... It will also alleviate having to design a multi-story parking garage."

The branches would both be about 13,000 square feet of library space, built to accommodate future expansion.

The eastside location could potentially be more expansive, Rosenthal said, including a new fire station, service center, recycling center and possible police sub-station. The City also would approach the U.S. Postal System about locating a postal outlet or kiosk at the site.

The west library branch site at Ruby Grant Community Park previously had been included in the park's master plan, which is yet to be developed.

The new library plan would have a similar budget for the three structures, although that hasn't been firmed up.

"Again ... those things could change," Rosenthal said. "We do not want to bring a bigger project to the citizens."

Pioneer Library System executive director Anne Masters said she is enthusiastic about the new proposal.

"I guess it was worth losing the vote," Masters said, with a little chagrin. "East and west branches will really increase our circulation."

Masters said she likes the idea of the Rhodes site and that it keeps the library as part of the city complex.

"I think the library would really mark the entrance to downtown," she said. "It makes a great statement."

There are still some proponents of working with the University of Oklahoma to build a main library on the North Base on Robinson Street.

Rosenthal said there was a question on the survey on locating the main library at that site.

"The support was below these other things I've indicated," she said.

She said the university has made it very clear that they want to be a great partner to the city.

"But they aren't in the business of giving away land," Rosenthal said.

Ed Copelin and Jim Wade have been among proponents of a North Base site.

"I think you would create synergy at the Y(MCA) and the (Optimist) gym," Copelin said, including a complete campus for residents. "Ideally, I think the senior citizens center should be along with the library."

Copelin said he favors using the Rhodes site instead to expand the municipal complex.

Wade said he favors the North Base site because "a lot of people don't want to travel into downtown, because it takes so long to do it."

But he said he's not opposed to the emerging library proposal.

"I think the revised proposal is an improvement, by a long shot," Wade said.

Rosenthal said they plan meetings to discuss the potential plan with individuals, stakeholders, school and PTA groups and civic groups.

She said it is too early to determine when a referendum on the library plan might be voted on.

"I think this is a plan that will better serve the whole community," Ezzell said.

Carol Cole-Frowe 366-3538 ccole@normantranscript.com