<Vysočina> still wants a regional library in H.Brodě, but in a different location</>

Jihlava - The Vysočina Region is still considering the construction of a new regional library in Havlíčkův Brod, but at a different location than in previous years. The original project in the hospital complex was abandoned by the regional government last year due to other planned constructions for the hospital and social services. The region is now considering building the library on a plot of land next to the Ostrov Cultural House, which currently serves as a temporary parking lot. This was stated by Deputy Governor Libor Joukl (ČSSD) after today's regional council meeting.
    The region has already allocated funds for the basic study related to the library. Further timelines will depend on the decision of the Havlíčkův Brod city council and its willingness to make the necessary changes to the city's zoning plan, according to the press release.
    "The most important thing for us is that the regional library remains in Havlíčkův Brod," said Havlíčkův Brod Mayor Jan Tecl (ODS) to ČTK. He stated that the city council is aware of the region's new intention and that city councilors will also be informed about it at the September meeting.
    The Vysočina Regional Library in Havlíčkův Brod was established in 2001. It operates in three rented spaces and also utilizes the facilities of the city library. It has 314,000 volumes. The library collection occupies an area of over 900 square meters, and its needs grow annually by approximately 50 square meters.
    The region has been planning the construction of a new regional library in Brod for the summer; it had already announced a public architectural competition for it nine years ago. However, there was later talk of the library being sought after by the regional capital Jihlava, mainly due to the highest concentration of schools.
    "Jihlava would be interested in having the regional library here. However, at this moment, it might not be entirely relevant, and the region has not approached us to discuss any possible location in Jihlava," said Jihlava Mayor Rudolf Chloupek (ČSSD) today.
    According to the region, there aren't many suitable locations in Havlíčkův Brod for the regional library's seat. "There was consideration, for instance, of utilizing the building of the monastery or the former district office," stated regional councilor Marie Kružíková (ČSSD). According to her, this encountered numerous objections, including costly renovations of this heritage-protected building owned by the state. Another considered property in state ownership is the building of the former agricultural office on Smetanovo Square. One of the options was also to place the library directly in the Ostrov Cultural House, but the owner reportedly ruled out the possibility of selling it.