By Josh Mitchell, Record Staff WriterIt will be easier to obtain bonds to build new libraries now that the library districts in Franklin, Gasconade and Warren counties have consolidated into a single district, an official said.The consolidated district is embarking on a plan to build, renovate and expand libraries after a tax rate increase was approved by voters in April.The plan is to build new libraries in Owensville and New Haven, said Scenic Regional Library Executive Director Steve Campbell. The old libraries would be closed and sold, he added.In Pacific, Union and Hermann there could be new libraries built or existing buildings may be acquired and renovated.The St. Clair library may be expanded, and the Warrenton library will be renovated and expanded. A branch will be added in Wright City, either by building a new structure or acquiring an existing one.The new libraries, renovations and expansions should be done in about four to five years, Campbell said.“We’ll have a lot of nice new buildings,” Campbell said.The cost of all the projects, including the bonding expenses, is estimated at $15 million to $20 million, Campbell said. About $1 million will be set aside each year for 15 to 20 years to pay off the bonds, Campbell noted.In April, voters approved a 10-cent property tax increase for the Scenic Regional Library system.The consolidation of the library districts in Franklin, Warren and Gasconade counties will take effect July 1. The county commissions in the three counties have approved the consolidation plan.Prior to the consolidation being approved, the three districts were basically united through a “handshake” agreement, Campbell said.The lack of a legal consolidation was hurting Scenic Regional’s ability to obtain bonds for construction, Campbell said. Presiding County Commissioner John Griesheimer said the consolidation of the library districts does not have a negative impact on Franklin County.Griesheimer said he spoke with current and former library board members and that consolidation looked like a positive step.Campbell said it helps the long-term stability of the system and helps it operate more efficiently.The combined district will have a 12-member board with four members from each county who are appointed by county commissioners.Scenic Regional Library