Newton Library Announces Children's Room Expansion, Solar Panels

NEWTON, MA — The Newton Free Library has announced several new improvements, including the start of its Children's Room expansion and the launch of its new solar panels.

The Children's Room expansion, which was formally celebrated with a "Wallbreaking" ceremony featuring Mayor Ruthanne Fuller on Monday, will add 4,000 square feet to the Children's Room to create more program space, activity stations, and family-friendly, accessible restrooms.

The library's new solar panels went live last week, according to the mayor's office. Over the course of the next 12 months, they will generate 49% of the building's electricity, avoid 200 tons of CO2 emissions, and be the equivalent of 214 acres of trees in terms of carbon sequestration.

These improvements are being launched in time for the 30th birthday celebration of the Newton Free Library’s Homer Street opening on Saturday, Sept.18. The event will begin at 11 a.m. with a scavenger hunt, followed by a dedication and commemorative remarks at 2 p.m. and a Family Music Concert with Vanessa Trien after the ceremony.

For more information on the Newton Free Library, click here.