MARBLEHEAD — The town is investing $9.5 million to revamp the Abbot Public Library, which will completely transform the space inside the library with more modern technology and other improvements.
Aspects of the renovation include newly installed learning nooks, fireside reading, and a coffee area upon approval by the health inspector. There will also be a teen area, a “maker space” project, a business center, a quiet reading room, access to the garden, and an information zone.
For interior renovations, the lower, main and third levels’ approximate total will be $798,200. On the third level there won’t be any major renovations done other than new stairs and a new fire door. On the lower and main levels, ventilation will be fixed with the installation of all new electrical and light fixtures. There won’t be painting done, no new carpet installed, or any added furniture.
At a Tuesday afternoon meeting of the Abbot Public Library Building Renovation Committee, some expressed concern about the renovation not benefitting the library’s staff by not updating the paint, carpet, or furniture in the building.
“I’m not comfortable without there being any painting, new carpet, or furniture. Not prioritizing the staff at all in this $10 million investment isn’t fair, “ said Board of Trustees member Nancy Arata.
Library Director Kimberly Grad echoed Arata’s concern.
“My concern is the physical health of my staff,” she said.
With the already $9.5 million budget, adding paint, carpet, and furniture would cost no more than an additional $60,000. To clear up Grad and Arata’s concern, the committee agreed to remove a planned studio and sound booth due to a lack of room in the budget, unless there is support through private or public donations.
Board of Trustees member Gary Amberik pointed out that “the stairs are in rough shape.”
“By not demolishing the stairs and repairing the current stairs, this will save money in the courtyard budget,” said Michael Bellefeuille.
Outside of the library costs, the courtyard’s total budget is approximately $365,600.
A tour is offered for neighbors, friends, and the book club to find out more details about this project. Donations are also being accepted and can be found on the Abbot Public Library website.
Magella Cantara can be reached at [email protected].
