Our Proposal

The Library Board and talented architects took a hard look at the Library’s needs, developing a design that is both beautiful and financially responsible. It’s a Yankee-thriftiness approach to achieving our priorities that reduces new construction and uses every square foot of the two-floor Firehouse property. There will be a new entranceway, a welcoming information and circulation center, a pathway to the Children’s Library and a connection to the renovated Firehouse with both a distinctive stairway and an elevator to a fully accessible second floor community room for programs and exhibits — all joined to our “jewel box” heritage Library building. The current Library is approximately 6450 square feet in publicly accessible space, staff working areas and storage. The building renovation and new construction will add approximately 5300 square feet for public use and staff.

The increased square footage will add a Community Room (with accessory areas) of 1400 square feet. The remaining new areas include two small meeting rooms; a young adult room; an expanded information technology and circulation services area; a full disability access entranceway, restrooms and elevator to the Community Room.

Fundraising Plan

The project will cost $6.3 million, funded by a combination of private donations and grants from government and private foundations. We are thrilled to have received a $2 million grant from the CT State Library!