The Eveleth School at 3 Brook Road in Marblehead has been chosen as the site for Abbot Public Library’s Interim Space. The library will relocate its contents and services to this site in early Fall 2022.
Repurposing the classrooms and gym space at the school, the interim space will include approximately 40% of the library’s collections, rooms dedicated to reference and technical support, children, and teens, as well as a quiet reading area and a room for public programs.
Programs will be on hiatus during August and September in consideration of the move. The library will be closed to the public at certain points during the transition. Dates of the closure will be announced.
Renovations at 235 Pleasant Street are scheduled to begin in December 2022 with a projected completion date of Spring 2024.
We are currently assessing budget estimates for the project based on design documents. Initial estimates are coming in over budget due to escalation rates in the cost of materials. We are making every effort to address our original goals for the project which include the following:
- Replacements: Elevator, Electrical System, Fire Alarm and Protection System, and HVAC
- Repairs: ADA access, stairs, surface storm run-off and the parking lot
- Redesign: main entry, service desks, quiet nooks, reading areas, study spaces, teen center, project studio, garden access and improved enhanced technology platforms.
The library celebrates its 145th anniversary this year. Improvements gleaned from this renovation will serve the community for the next 25 years.