Library Construction Begins in Marlborough
September 22, 2021
Celeste Bruno
Communications Director
1-800-952-7403 x208
Celeste.Bruno@mass.gov
On September 21, 2021 Marlborough residents gathered with state and federal officials to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Marlborough Public Library. “Libraries have become even more important as the only resource that’s absolutely free to every resident,” said Senator Jamie Eldredge.
The project, which is partially funded with a $10,186,626 Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC), will renovate the existing historic Carnegie building and replace the 1960’s addition with a new structure designed to meet growing demands for library services. MBLC Commissioner Dr. Les Ball congratulated the community on investing in the future of all residents. “Libraries embody the very best of our democratic principles with equal access for all at the core of how libraries operate,” he said.
The new fully handicapped accessible building will have expanded space for children and teens, updated technology, community meeting space and more parking. “The library aspires to be the engine that creates and sustains community in Marlborough,” said Library Director Margaret Cardello. The $23 million project is estimated to be completed in eighteen months.
The project is also sustainably designed. If it receives official LEED certification from the US Green Building Council, it will qualify for additional funding from the MBLC through the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program Green Library Incentive.
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, Littleton, Marlborough, Medford, Sharon, and Sherborn. Projects in Dartmouth, Erving, Hadley, Norwell, and Weymouth were recently completed. Learn more about the program on the MBLC website and the Building Literacy podcast.
About MBLC
The Board of Library Commissioners (mass.gov/mblc) is the agency of state government with the statutory authority and responsibility to organize, develop, coordinate and improve library services throughout the Commonwealth. The Board advises municipalities and library trustees on the operation and maintenance of public libraries, including construction and renovation. It administers state and federal grant programs for libraries and promotes cooperation among all types of libraries through regional library systems and automated resource sharing. It also works to ensure that all residents of the Commonwealth, regardless of their geographic location, social or economic status, age, level of physical or intellectual ability or cultural background, have access to essential new electronic information technologies and significant electronic databases.