The new library will feature flexible spaces for learning, quiet study, and diverse library programing for all ages, along with a space for comfortable seating or gathering with your neighbors. Some of the new features will include:
- Two new meeting rooms, perfect for remote work, distance learning, and private meetings.
- A central technology center with modern desktop workstations running popular productivity applications and high speed WIFI.
- An expanded collection space to adequately house our growing collections for children, teens and adults, from bestsellers to DVDs.
- Comfortable and cozy reading and gathering space, utilizing the space’s natural light, and connecting the library to its outdoor spaces.
- A program room to accommodate the many community programs the library organizes and hosts, as well as storage for program materials. This space will also allow for adequate distancing to accommodate library programs for all ages and allow for programs to be held in-house.
- A bright, cheerful, expanded children’s space to allow families to engage in learning together with cozy reading spots, early literacy materials, a diverse children’s collection, and space for collaborative learning.
- A dedicated area for young adults that will serve as a safe, productive place during the “critical hours” after school, on weekends, and during the summer months.
- Staff space designed to allow for increased security and social distancing. The volunteers and library staff will have a technical processing room to repair collection pieces and prepare programming. The circulation desk will be centrally located, and the Director’s office will allow for sightlines throughout the building.
- A new HVAC system to replace our failing system. The new system will improve energy efficiency and ventilation – one of the primary concerns with COVID transmission. The new system will be an energy recovery ventilation system, which brings in and exhausts outdoor air, constantly replenishing the air in the building.
For a project like this, the cost of a much-needed renovation to the existing structure will be reduced when it is incorporated into an expansive construction project. It may also be possible to keep the library operating in place if the renovation and expansion occur at once. Without an expansion, the library will need to close, or operations will need to move for upcoming renovation work.
Newbury Public Library Foundation 