A few months back, we reported on the relocation of the aging Preston Royal Library to the corner of Forest and Nuestra – currently home to the rundown Korean Young Nak Presbyterian Church. Most neighbors in the area welcomed the idea of having the library just a few blocks away from their homes.

The city is now moving forward on buying up the land for the future library, although we won’t see any signs of construction for another three to four years. So why now? Councilwoman Ann Margolin says the land comes at a much cheaper price right now, considering the current economic climate. The city allotted $5 million for the land purchase but will only pay $3.5 million.

The church will eventually be torn down to make way for the new library, which will be tailored to fit the needs of the neighborhood – in terms of architectural design, program offerings, etc.

The current Preston Royal Library at Royal near the Tollway will remain open until further notice.