New $3.5M Oxford Library Will Result in More Staff

Earlier this week details surfaced about a new proposed $3.5 million, 10,000-square-foot Oxford Public Library.

The building will be constructed on Great Oak Road, and officials say the goal is to have the facility open by early 2017.

Again no final approval has been given to the project, and it must be approved first by residents at a referendum, likely this fall.

The building will be 1-story with two wings and a full basement, and it will feature a lot of windows, according to Board of Selectmen meeting minutes.

Moving to a bigger building will necessitate the hiring of more staff. A new full-time reference/tech/weekend supervisor position will be needed, along with a half-time teen librarian, and 2 part-time clerks, according to meeting minutes.

Space will also be dedicated for tutoring and small meeting groups, and First Selectman George R. Temple suggested naming the library after Mariam Strong.

Oxford officials estimate the library will cost residents about $75 in taxes or a $1.50 a week. The project is expected to be bonded, and it’s possible some donations may be accepted for the cost.