A new proposal is in the works for a new, somewhat scaled-down main library and two branch libraries on the east and west sides of Norman, after voters denied a new $49.5 million main library on a previous effort by a 280-vote margin from more than 11,000 votes cast May 6.

The potential proposal that's been floated before councilmembers, library supporters, chamber members and potential stakeholders would locate the library at the Rhodes Granary site north of Andrews Park near downtown, with surface parking to the north. A west branch could be at the Ruby Grant Park and an east branch could be at 36th Avenue East and Alameda Street.

"No. 1, we have gone through a very concerted listening effort," said Mayor Cindy Rosenthal. "We've been really trying to listen and get a greater sense of what voters would like us to come back with."

Rosenthal said besides talking to Norman residents, a survey was taken of about 1,000 people about what they want in a library. The survey was paid for by the Partnership for Norman's Progress, with campaign funds left over from the previous library referendum. She said the survey would not be available until the group meets again and votes to release it.

"But we pretty clearly heard we need to be specific on the (library) site," she said.

She said a downtown location remains the No. 1 priority for the main site.

Rosenthal said the Rhodes family approached the City more than a year ago about purchasing the property. Other area property owners also have indicated a willingness to talk to the City about selling.

Whether or not the Rhodes site becomes a location for a new main library, councilmembers intend to purchase it, probably at the Sept. 23 council meeting.

"It's a valuable piece of property to the City," Rosenthal said. Other possible uses for the site if it doesn't eventually host a new library include expansion of the municipal complex.

Ward 1 councilmember Bob Thompson said he believes it's a great location for the main library.

"The proximity to the current library is an advantage. And the proximity to the park -- I think it makes sense," Thompson said. "I think it's a natural fit."

Another plus on the Rhodes site is that there would not be a need for eminent domain proceedings.

"I was never a fan of condemnation," said Ward 3 councilmember Hal Ezzell.

Ezzell was vocal in the previous referendum that he found it a stumbling block that there were no library branches included, in spite of Norman's expansive 197 square miles annexed to protect its watershed.

"I think branches are absolutely essential," Ezzell said. "It never made any sense to me (not to have branches.) ... It will also alleviate having to design a multi-story parking garage."