Questions Raised About Library Plans

Architects are saying that a newly renovated Grafton Public Library is not about the books, it’s about servicing citizens.

“The library is for you,” said Philip O’Brien, principal of Johnson Roberts Associate Inc. “It is designed for the people using it.”

A meeting was held Wednesday, Aug. 17 at the community barn to seek public input on the proposed new library expansion. The project is expected to cost about $12 million, with $5 million coming from a state grant. 

Some of those attending the meeting viewed the renovation plans with
caution. Some of them fired concerns at O’Brien and asked literal million-dollar questions.

Some were worried about what options they had during renovations, and how their taxes would be affected by it.

“People need to go to the library to see how much space will be lost,” said Kassandra Finn of Grafton. “People…want options.”

According to www.graftonlibrarycampaign.com, the annual household cost for the project would be approximately $79.

Others were more concerned with maintaining the historical aspects of the library.

Some raised questions at the idea of adding a new wheelchair ramp between 60 and 70 feet long, especially after O’Brien said the ramp would not have “a historic look.”’

O’Brien said the renovations were in the schematic design phase, and architects were waiting for a green light from the state to start mapping out final plans.

O’Brien also said that a newly renovated library would lead to “lots of possibilities,” including an expanded parking lot, a relocated
young adults room, an elevator, and brand new book shelves.

“It should be fun and easy to come to the library,” he said.

O'Brien encouraged residents to ask questions and give a little input.

"It’s big change,” he said. “But we want feedback from the
people.”

For more information, go to http://graftonlibrarycampaign.org/about-us/