NEWS RELEASE

On June 10, state and local officials joined Norwell residents to celebrate the new Norwell Public Library. “We’ve always had a great staff,” said Library Director Judy McConarty. “Now we have a space to match.”

The project was made possible in part with a $6,360,764 Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program (MPLCP) grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC). MBLC Commissioner Les Ball congratulated the community and recognized the library staff's hard work and the challenges brought on by the pandemic.

Nestled in a wooded area near the high school, the new library is built for the 21^st century and beyond with state-of-the-art technology, a workshop for experiential learning, and flexible space that can evolve with the needs of the community. These modern elements are combined with a screened-in porch with rocking chairs, cozy reading nooks and comfortable seating by walls of windows that overlook the woods. “You have created a space where dreams will be unlocked,” said State Senator Patrick O’Connor.

The old library was built in 1975 and at 8,500 square feet it lacked accessibility and space for teens and children. In its place, the new 22,300 square foot building boasts an expansive children’s room and craft room, a comfortable teen room, a larger community meeting room that can accommodate after hours use, local history room and quiet study rooms (photos).

The MPLCP was first funded by a state bond authorization in 1987. Since then, it has helped more than 250 communities plan, build, renovate and/or expand their public libraries. MPLCP projects are currently underway in the following communities:  Grafton, Greenfield, Littleton, Marlborough, Medford, Sharon, Sherborn. Projects in Dartmouth, Erving, Hadley, Weymouth, Springfield, and Boston were recently completed. Learn more about the program on the MBLC website and the Building Literacy podcast.