The Williamsburg Public Libraries

Groundbreaking for the long-anticipated Meekins Library addition and renovation took place June 26, 2002. By the time it closed for renovations, the 105 year old building was bursting at the seams. Use of this fine old building was hampered by an antiquated physical plant. The library was also totally inaccessible to patrons who could not climb its formidable front steps or navigate the narrow aisles in its interior.

The Meekins Library Renovation Project will...

provide universal access to all patrons, bring the library to full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, provide a street-level main entrance and elevator, and bring all utility and mechanical systems up to code.

It will preserve the important architectural features and detailing of the present historic structure while greatly expanding the library's usable floor area.

There will be more and better space for the children's collection and children's services and an all-new preschool area.

The old reading room will be brought back to its original use and provide a space where patrons can sit and read in comfortable chairs.

There will be a multipurpose room for community meetings, gatherings, performances and other activities. The basics, such as modern rest rooms, adequate storage space and a workspace for the staff will be in place as it hasn't been before.

Public Funding

Over $1,000,000 in public funding, including:

• $500,000 Town of Williamsburg bond
• $590,000 Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners construction grant

Private Fundraising
to Date

• Over $750,000 from more than 700 families and individuals
• $75,000 Massachusetts Historical Commission
• $60,000 National Endowment for the Humanities
• $25,000 Fantasy Salvage Collective Challenge Grant
• $25,000 Anonymous Challenge Grant
• $21,000 Florence Savings Bank
• $20,000 One-week challenge grant - April, 2002
• $10,000 Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts
• $5,000 Williamsburg Lions Club

Still Needed

Less than $40,000 (plus interest) to pay back private loans to the Friends of the Williamsburg Libraries. This is the remainder of the money given to the town to cover the contingency fee needed by the town to enable the project to proceed. Payment is due the end of May, 2004.

Go back to the renovation project.