Major Renovations Coming For Aging Bloomfield Library

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Big improvements are coming for the Bloomfield Public Library, officials said Wednesday.

The Township of Bloomfield announced that a “major renovation project” has been launched to modernize and improve the historic Bloomfield Public Library building, which is located at 90 Broad Street. In addition to safety improvements, the renovation project will also enhance the library's functionality and accessibility, officials said.

“We are thrilled to be embarking on this exciting renovation project for our community library,” Acting Township Administrator Anthony DeZenzo said.

“Our library has been a cornerstone of our community for almost a century, and this project will ensure that it remains a valuable resource for generations to come,” DeZenzo said.

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s Office of Public Employees’ Occupational Safety and Health recently issued an order to comply regarding the library, citing multiple safety concerns due to the building’s age.

“Township officials have addressed the most pressing issues raised in the report, and although the building is in need of renovation it currently presents no danger to residents or employees,” a news release about the upgrades stated.

Bloomfield officials provided some background information about the library’s history:

“First opened to the public in 1927, the Bloomfield Public Library has served as a beloved community resource for almost 100 years. By 1963, the need for more space had become obvious and the library underwent an extensive renovation. On September 5, 1967, the library was reopened to the public with the first floor of the original building re-designated as the Children’s Library and the lower level as a meeting room and staff area. The meeting room became a theater in 1969 and continues to be the site of many live musical programs, films, lectures and children’s programs sponsored by the library and other groups.”

Town officials said the renovation project is being funded by a combination of grants, as well as at least $1 million in municipal funding, which was included in this year's budget.

Updates on the renovation project will be posted on the library's website and social media channels as well as on the Bloomfield Township website: bloomfieldtwpnj.com.

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