New Southington Library's Final Steel Beam Needs Public Signatures

SOUTHINGTON, CT — A planned topping-off ceremony to celebrate the final steel beam installation of the new Southington Public Library may not be open to the public.

But the public can be part of it in spirit as they have a chance to sign the beam and have their signatures forever enshrined as long as the building remains standing.

Starting Wednesday, Nov. 1, to Tuesday, Nov. 7, the beam will be located in the rear of the current Southington Public Library Building, 255 Main St.

That's where community members can go and sign it, with signings taking place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. when the library is open.

"To sign the beam, come into the Library and speak with our staff at the Circulation desk," wrote Southington Public Library Acting Director Christopher Larson.

"This new library will be a symbol of the community's commitment to education and knowledge, and we want our residents to be a part of its legacy."

The actual ceremony to celebrate the "topping off," a traditional milestone for public construction projects, is on Wednesday, Nov. 8.

A final signing period will take place from 3 to 3:45 p.m. that day, with speakers slated for 3:45 p.m.

Then, the final beam will be hoisted up and it will "top off" the building at 4 p.m.

Parking for this event is in the existing library parking lot, with the ceremonies taking place in the nearby construction lot.

The ceremony, which is taking place at a working construction site, is only for those dignitaries who have received an invitation to attend.

Larson said since the location is still a working construction site, attendance is being limited for safety reasons. In addition, he said, parking is limited.

Ultimately, the $16.9 million library— which was approved by voters in 2021 — is for the community and that's why the public is being asked to come sign the beam if they can.

"We are thrilled to invite the Southington community to participate in the steel beam signing event for the new library building," said Larson. "The steel beam signing event is an opportunity for residents to be a part of our history."

For more information on the Southington Public Library, click on this link.

For an update on the new Southington Public Library construction project, click on this link.

From Oct. 9: 'Web Portal Created For Southington Library Construction Project