NEWS RELEASE

On August 17, 2019 Monterey residents gathered with local and state officials to dedicate the new Monterey Library, a project that was supported by a $1.85 million grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners’ (MBLC) public library construction program. “The MBLC has been with us every step of the way,” said Library Director Mark Makuc who also recognized the tremendous community effort that it took to make the new library a reality. Library Trustee Mickey Jarvis echoed his comments, “We asked you to vote several times and each time you voted ‘yes’ in favor of a better library for everyone,” she said.

Monterey was awarded a Massachusetts Public Library Construction (MPLCP) grant in February 2018 for the $3 million project. The one room, 1,809 square foot library built in 1931 was renovated and expanded to over 3,700 square feet. The project also removed the two additions that were added in 1975 and 1998 and converted the original library into a large multipurpose room that will serve this vibrant community in many ways. The room currently features paintings, pottery and sculpture from local artists. A light-filled addition in the back of the building and an attached porch give residents a view of the Konkapot River and waterfall. This new flexible space has areas for kids and teens and serves as a welcoming space for all Monterey residents.

Mary Kronholm, Secretary of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, congratulated the community and also encouraged residents to reach out to legislators to let them know how important it is to keep the Massachusetts Public Library Construction program funded so that other communities have the opportunity that Monterey has experienced. Select Board member Kenn Basler agreed, “We’re fortunate to have a Commonwealth that values libraries and backs that with funding. Without that, this library would not have been possible.”

The MPLCP has benefitted more than 250 towns and cities in Massachusetts since its inception in 1987. Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program projects are currently underway in Dartmouth, Erving, Hadley, Marlborough, Medford, Monterey, Norwell, Sherborn, Springfield, and Weymouth.

The MBLC is currently seeking additional bond funding in order to fund all libraries on the waitlist and start a new grant round. It is also requesting an increase in the yearly capital budget from $20 million to $25 million in order move through the waitlist in a timelier manner and save local communities the increased construction costs that come with waiting several years for the state funding needed to start projects. For more information about the MPLCP please visit the MBLC’s website.