Expansion Project

Summary

In its current 1,300 square foot space, Taylor Library "is bursting at the seams." A new 3,500 square foot expansion has been proposed that will allow the library's square footage to keep pace with its growing demands.

Rationale

Every inch of the library is currently in use in service to the Derry community. Approximately 4,600 library card holders belong to the Taylor Library. More than 19,000 books line the shelves. The library's basement and attic hold the overflow, including holiday books, magazine collections, and adult fiction books.
 
Due to space constraints, children's story hours are currently limited to 12 children; waiting lists are consistently necessary due to the popularity of the programs.
 
The lack of handicap accessibility is also a contributing factor to the need for a library expansion.

Proposed Uses

The proposed 3,500 square foot addition will most likely be devoted to children's services. The existing building will serve as an adult reading and reference section. Extra space for public computers, a new circulation desk, offices, and additional programming space will also be created.

Updates

The expansion project progresses as follows:

• ARCADD Inc., a West Newton, Massachusetts architectural firm, has been hired to create three potential library expansion designs, divided into 5 building phases. Their bid of $78,000 was the middle bid of seven proposals submitted. ARCADD has past experience with other library projects and historic buildings.
• Pinkerton Academy drafting students prepared preliminary designs for the building addition.