Leominster Public Library
Expansion and Renovation Project

Tuesday, December 26, 2006

What's happening at the Leominster Public Library?


Now that the exterior work is nearing completion, the question everyone is asking is "when will the new library open?" The following is an excerpt from an article written for the Leominster Champion newspaper by Library Director Susan Shelton, which explains what will be happening in the next few months.

If you haven’t been too caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, you may have had a chance to drive or walk by 30 West Street to see the progress on the newly expanded and renovated Leominster Public Library.

The warmer than usual temperatures have allowed the exterior work to progress nicely. Parking areas have been paved, walkways and handicapped ramps have been poured, exterior lighting has been installed, the flagpole has been erected, and finished landscaping is almost complete.

Although the exterior work will be finished before the snow flies, there is still much to be done on the interior of the building. However, because the building looks almost complete, some people have mistakenly thought it is open and have wandered inside. Unfortunately, this is still very much a construction site, and the building has not yet been turned over to the City by the general contractor. We ask for your patience just a little bit longer, and assure you it will be well-worth the wait.

Work will continue on the interior of the building throughout the winter. Restoration of the 1910 building is currently underway. Also ongoing is the installation of interior lighting fixtures, finished painting, and tile flooring. Carpeting will begin in January, and will be followed by the installation of library shelving. By early spring, the building’s furniture and equipment will be delivered in preparation for a late spring opening.

Closer to the completion of the project, the library will set a date for its public dedication celebration. This event is an opportunity for the entire community to come together to see the new library and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in the history of library service to our city and its residents. This dedication ceremony will mark the official opening of the library at its 30 West Street location.

In the meantime, the library continues to offer many wonderful programs and services for all ages at its temporary location – Crossroads Office Park, 690 Mechanic Street.

- by Susan Shelton, Library Director