Narragansett Library Building Project on Nov. 8 ballot

The voters of Narragansett will have the opportunity to vote on a bond referendum for a new library on November 8. The Board of Trustees of the Maury Loontjens Memorial Library have been investigating options to address the deficiencies of the current library building. After careful study, the Trustees have determined the best option for a new library is the vacant former supermarket space in the Pier Marketplace.

By relocating and expanding the library, the Trustees plan to address the shortcomings of the present site and provide new benefits to the community. In the present building, the library does not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Limited program space results in patrons being turned away from lectures, meetings and movies due to fire code regulations. Meeting and study space is limited, and parking is insufficient for the community’s needs.

Plans for the new library include dedicated meeting spaces and room for lectures and movies. The plans call for additional space for new materials and computers, including new technology areas. The children’s room would be enlarged and include a children’s restroom. Parking would be increased to accommodate more than 50 vehicles.

For more information on the library building project, visit the “F.A.Q. … Why do we need a new library?” link on the library’s web site, www.narlib.org.