First renderings of proposed Kingston Springs library revealed

County leaders and residents got their first look on Feb. 17 at graphic renderings of the proposed Kingston Springs library, including exterior designs and a preliminary interior layout modeled after Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic Fallingwater.

The renderings were presented during a workshop of the Cheatham County Commission as the project moves from concept to early engineering and architectural planning.

Bob Perry, a member of the Cheatham County Library Board of Trustees, said the design reflects Wright’s Prairie-style influence, emphasizing strong horizontal lines, natural materials and a structure intended to blend into its surroundings.

“This design is over 100 years old,” Perry said of the architectural inspiration. “I’ve been in that building 100 years later — it’s solid as a rock. That’s what we want to do.”

The proposed library would be built on land adjacent to Kingston Springs Middle School that was deeded to the county by the Board of Education. Perry said the location supports the board’s broader literacy initiative, which aims to establish structured after-school programming for middle school students.

He presented data showing Kingston Springs’ current 2,600-square-foot library is less than one-third of the square footage recommended by the state based on population. The board’s long-term plan is to bring library space closer to state standards while expanding services.

The proposed facility would include separate children’s and adult sections, ADA-compliant features and an elevator to access lower-level space. Perry noted the current building is not ADA compliant and hosted 42 children at a recent Thursday storytime session.

Plans also call for a dedicated veterans room, including reserved parking spaces and an outdoor patio designed to host student performances and community events.

Before fundraising can fully begin, commissioners were told the county must approve preliminary engineering work to assess utilities, soil conditions and site readiness. Architectural contracts will also be needed to finalize plans and develop reliable cost estimates.

County officials indicated engineering estimates could come before the commission as early as March. Once finalized, the library board intends to pursue private donations and state grants to support construction costs. The Friends of the Library have already contributed funds, and the Town of Pegram has promised $15,000 to support the project.

If the new facility is built, the current Kingston Springs library building would be returned to the city.

Commissioners expressed general support for advancing the project, with formal votes on engineering contracts expected in the coming weeks.