LETTIE W. JENSEN PUBLIC LIBRARY
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
Development of Initial Conceptual Design and Cost Estimates
The Village of Amherst, Wisconsin is inviting proposals from qualified firms to develop the initial conceptual design and provide cost estimates for the expansion and remodeling of our library. https://www.lwjlibrary.info/
The library building is a single-story building and encompasses 2,400 square feet (40 feet x 60 feet). It is located at 278 N. Main Street in Amherst, Wisconsin, on the Tomorrow River Mill Pond. The lot measures 118 feet by 333 feet. The original library was built to store books with a small conference and history rooms. Over the years, many new developments have impacted our library. The use of computers, growth in circulation and population, along with increased patronage by many area communities, have far exceeded the capability of our building's ability to meet current and future demands. While the positive impact of our library is evident, many pressing needs have been identified relating to lack of adequate space. Presently, our children's area and conference room have inadequate gathering and meeting space, our archive room has insufficient storage and expansion space, and an area is desired that would be devoted to young adult readers. We are also looking to make better use of our outdoor space.
We are seeking a firm that can provide creative, cost-effective and sustainable building and site plan concepts that blend with the natural beauty of our environment.
Scope of Services Required
The firm will be responsible for:
1. Stakeholder meetings to understand needs
2. Site analysis
3. Space needs assessment
4. Initial conceptual design – interior & exterior
5. Initial cost estimates for the completed project
Selection Criteria
1. Direct experience with small library projects including renovation and addition reflecting current library trends.
2. Experience with green building design and sustainability
3. Demonstrated ability to accurately estimate construction costs and to recommend creative, cost saving measures
4. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with Village Board, Library Board, library staff, the public, and the Library Expansion Committee formed for the project.
Required Information
1. Name and address of firm
2. Experience, qualifications and references of staff
3. List projects of similar size and scope
a. Project name
b. Project type (i.e. remodel, expansion, new construction)
c. Date
d. Client
e. References (provide name, relationship to project, address, phone number)
4. Fee structure and explanation
Timetable
2/11/2026 Review of RFP by Village Committee
2/24/2026 Review of RFP by Village Board
2/25/2026 Publish & send RFP to Architectural Firms
3/31/2026 Receive Proposals for Architectural Services
3/31/2026 Review of Proposals
4/2/2026 Short list of selected firms notified
4/6-10/26 Interview short list of selected firms
4/14/2026 Selection of final firm by village board
Please send your complete proposal to Jodi Patoka, Village Clerk, Village of Amherst, 160 Mill Street, Amherst, WI 54406. Proposals must be received by 1pm on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Questions may be directed to Jodi Patoka, Clerk at clerk@villageofamherst.wi.gov or Dave Crubaugh, Board President at 715-824-5613.
WNAXLP
February 27 2026
LWIX0465063