Background of the SLPP
In May 2021, the MBLC launched a pilot project to construct a new library building in a Massachusetts town of 2,000 or fewer residents. The Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program (MPLCP) has been providing construction grants for over 30 years, yet at the time of the pilot’s launch, only 15 of the program’s over 200 construction grants had gone to towns in this population category.
The Small Library Pilot Project only allowed for new construction, mitigating unique factors posed by renovation or addition projects. The goal is to build a new public library building that is functional, efficient, flexible, durable, and economical.
In April 2022, the pilot grant was provisionally awarded to the town of Shutesbury. In June 2022, the town approved local funding for the project and a contract was executed. The planning of the building was a collaborative effort between the selected town and MBLC staff. Completion of construction of the 4,300 square foot building is slated for Fall 2025.
Information on Shutesbury
Shutesbury, a town of less than 2,000 residents in Franklin County, has operated out of the M.N. Spear Library, a 945 square foot, one-room building with no running water, since 1902.
For more information on this pilot project, visit Shutesbury's Small Library Pilot Project page, view Shutesbury's photos of the project progress, read the SLPP regulations, or view the program notice.
Lessons Learned
The Small Library Pilot Project has informed a new grant type for communities with municipal census populations of less than 2,500. The Small Population grant type Planning and Design Phase award covers pre-planning, planning, and design activities. The Construction Phase award’s funding formula covers 70% of eligible cost, not including the municipality’s need factor percentage derived from the Department of Revenue’s equalized valuation and income per capita figures. The MBLC’s Construction Team works more closely with the stakeholders throughout the process to aid with capacity limitations. In regard to design, adaptability is paramount with a focus on multifunctional and flexible spaces as well as the infrastructure needs posed by well water and septic systems.