Chatham Township Unanimously Commits Up to $1.25 Million Toward Library Renovation Project

CHATHAM, N.J. — The Chatham Township Committee unanimously adopted Resolution 2026-140 on Tuesday evening, formally supporting the Library of the Chathams Capital Improvement Project through a commitment of up to $1.25 million in funding for 2027.

The resolution marks a significant milestone for the Library renovation project and reflects the Township's commitment to preserving and enhancing one of the community's most valued public institutions.

"We are grateful to the members of the Chatham Township Committee for their leadership, thoughtful consideration, and support," said Andy Hollander, President of the Chatham Library Foundation Board of Trustees. "Their commitment represents an important step forward and reflects our community's shared belief in investing in a modern, accessible library that will serve residents for generations to come."

The Foundation also appreciates the Chatham Borough Council for taking the time to listen to residents and community stakeholders during its July 13 meeting. We look forward to continuing that constructive dialogue in the weeks ahead.

The proposed renovation will modernize the Library of the Chathams by addressing aging infrastructure, improving accessibility, creating more flexible spaces for learning and community gathering, expanding programming opportunities, and ensuring the building can continue to meet the evolving needs of residents of all ages.

The Chatham Library Foundation also extends its sincere appreciation to the many residents, volunteers, community organizations, and advocates who have attended public meetings, signed the community petition, shared information with neighbors, and voiced their support throughout the process. Your engagement has helped build tremendous momentum for this project.

While the Township's action represents a major milestone, important work remains. Community outreach efforts will now focus on the public presentation and question-and-answer session on Wednesday, August 5, at the Library of the Chathams, where HMR Architects will present the proposed renovation plans. To RSVP and submit questions in advance of the meeting, please visit the Library Renovation Public Forum and Q&A. This will be followed by the Chatham Borough Council meeting on Monday, August 10 at 7:30 p.m.

"We're incredibly encouraged by the momentum we've seen across the community," said Judy-Ann Hargrove, Development Director for the Chatham Library Foundation. "This project has inspired residents from across Chatham to speak up about what the Library means to them. We invite everyone to stay engaged by attending the August 5 public presentation, learning more about the renovation, and continuing to make their voices heard as we move toward the Borough Council meeting on August 10."

Residents can learn more about the renovation project, sign the community petition, contact elected officials, view upcoming meeting information, and find ways to get involved by visiting the Foundation's Library Renovation Project page.

About the Chatham Library Foundation

The Chatham Library Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and enhancing the Library of the Chathams through philanthropic investment, community engagement, and advocacy. Working in partnership with the Library, the Foundation helps ensure that the Library remains a vibrant, welcoming, and innovative resource for generations to come.