The branches would both be about 13,000 square feet of library space, built to accommodate future expansion.

The eastside location could potentially be more expansive, Rosenthal said, including a new fire station, service center, recycling center and possible police sub-station. The City also would approach the U.S. Postal System about locating a postal outlet or kiosk at the site.

The west library branch site at Ruby Grant Community Park previously had been included in the park's master plan, which is yet to be developed.

The new library plan would have a similar budget for the three structures, although that hasn't been firmed up.

"Again ... those things could change," Rosenthal said. "We do not want to bring a bigger project to the citizens."

Pioneer Library System executive director Anne Masters said she is enthusiastic about the new proposal.

"I guess it was worth losing the vote," Masters said, with a little chagrin. "East and west branches will really increase our circulation."

Masters said she likes the idea of the Rhodes site and that it keeps the library as part of the city complex.

"I think the library would really mark the entrance to downtown," she said. "It makes a great statement."

There are still some proponents of working with the University of Oklahoma to build a main library on the North Base on Robinson Street.

Rosenthal said there was a question on the survey on locating the main library at that site.

"The support was below these other things I've indicated," she said.

She said the university has made it very clear that they want to be a great partner to the city.

"But they aren't in the business of giving away land," Rosenthal said.

Ed Copelin and Jim Wade have been among proponents of a North Base site.