The 1996, 10,000 SF expansion of the Portage library nearly doubled the space used by the public to better serve the growing community.  The new arched forms at the front of the building, reminiscent of sails, help to clearly denote the entry.  The new vaulted, arched forms allow filtered natural light deep into the building and down to the lower level.  There are quiet areas for reading, studying and computer use.  Preschool, K-5, and teen areas are housed on the lower level.  Sloping garden space on the north side of the building provides additional space for programming and opens to flexible conference rooms.  The garden can be reached from the lower level by terraced steps.