The summer of 2018 was a barn burner for the Stonington Public Library. In July we welcomed 1,229 visitors, greeting more people and loaning more items than in any month in the past 10 years. In addition, 577 people—newborns to octogenarians—enjoyed our 21 summer programs.
With fall, we embark on a new adventure—the first two phases of our three-part All Aboard renovation project. Once completed, Stonington Public Library will be more accessible, comfortable and secure for all.
Beginning Monday, Oct. 15, the library will be closed until Tuesday, Nov. 13. The planned work includes:
- dismantlement of the crumbling, hazardous chimney;
- installation of a more efficient heating system on the second floor;
- reconfiguration of the first floor for ease of use;
- construction of a handicap accessible public restroom.
These improvements are fully funded by three grants totaling $65,000 from the Davis Family Foundation ($30,000), the Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust ($10,000) and the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation ($25,000). B.K. Burgess, Inc. will do the construction work.
For safety reasons, patrons will not be allowed in the building during the construction. In addition, interlibrary loans will be suspended. However, regular programs such as story hours and Tech Tuesday will be held at the Island Community Center.
How to Stock Up on Books…
Most importantly, we encourage our patrons who need a steady infusion of books to stock up before we close. There are no quantity limits! Items cannot be returned and overdue fines are waived during this four-week interruption of service. For more details and project updates, check this site and like us on Facebook.
We are happy to start this long-awaited project and can’t wait to reopen on Nov. 13 when we can share the improvements with you.
The dust has settled, the heat and water are back on, and the library has reopened after a month of construction and improvements. To celebrate, the library Board of Trustees invites everyone to an open house on Saturday, December 1, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.
