The renovation, to be paid for by a Kennebec Savings Bank donation, is needed for further work to take place.

In the year since the library reopened after a major expansion, people are staying longer, lingering to read and taking part in expanded library programs.

Although the board voted late Tuesday to approve the plan, critics say it still doesn’t blend into the surrounding state buildings.

The project developer told the Planning Board before its vote that financing for the project is ‘fragile.’

The ladder truck is in Connecticut for repairs, which won’t cost the city any money because it is still under warranty.