$25K From Marlborough Rotary To Library Renovation

MARLBOROUGH, MA — The ongoing renovation of the Marlborough Public Library got a big boost recently after the Rotary Club of Marlborough contributed $25,000 to the effort. The new gift comes after the Marlborough Library Foundation donated $16,000 to the renovation in September.

Here's more from a Marlborough Library Foundation press release:

The Rotary Club of Marlborough has once again demonstrated its commitment to the community by donating $25,000 to the Marlborough Public Library Foundation’s Capital Campaign for the renovation and expansion project currently underway.

"The Marlborough Public Library is one of the core pillars of this community. The Rotary Club of Marlborough is thrilled to be a part of this expansion, and we cannot wait to see the Library serve the people of this city for years to come," said Rotary President Aaron Aykanian.

To memorialize the club’s support, a study room in the new facility will feature a plaque bearing the club’s name.

"The Rotary Club of Marlborough has a long tradition of service in the city, and we are honored they chose to support the MPL through the MPL Foundation,” said Foundation President William Keyles. "Our library is truly a community treasure. It is a knowledge center that offers residents of every socioeconomic status, age, and background tremendous opportunities for growth. This renovation project will ensure that it continues to serve Marlborough residents well into the future."

Construction on the long-awaited project has begun, and is expected to be completed by Spring 2023. The MPL has temporarily moved to the Walker Building and is open to the public. The new facility will be a state-of-the-art library that retains the beautiful historic elements of the existing Carnegie building. It will continue to be an anchor to downtown Marlborough, providing easy access for all residents and visitors. It will offer, among other features, more community meeting spaces, including a 200-seat auditorium and areas for quiet study; improved technology infrastructure; full ADA compliance; much-needed expanded parking; and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for efficiency and sustainability.

The City has received a $10.1 million construction grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners to offset the costs of the $26 million project. The MPL Foundation’s Capital Campaign is seeking to further offset those costs by securing donations from local businesses, organizations, and citizens.

The first public library opened in Marlborough 150 years ago, thanks to the support of the business community and residents who recognized the importance of free access to information, explained Nena Bloomquist, who is heading up the Foundation’s Capital Campaign.

"It was an impressive commitment at a time when most libraries were private, fee-based
institutions," said Nena Bloomquist, Capital Campaign Chair. "This new project is equally exciting. It is truly a once-in-a-generation opportunity to contribute to something that is so vital to our city."

Bloomquist noted that a variety of naming opportunities are still available in the new facility at a wide range of donation levels. One-time donations or pledges over time are also gratefully accepted. For more information on how to support the Foundation, contact
marlpublibfoundation@gmail.com or visit the foundation website.