To the editor:
Lynnfield Public Library’s building is in need of attention. Twenty years ago, residents and staff said the building needed work, but it has continuously been put on the back burner and fallen further into disrepair. When will Lynnfield address the numerous building issues? The town is working with Tappé Architects to propose a renovation the building desperately needs, not only structurally but also to fill gaps in community needs.
Building improvements include, but are not limited to, ADA-compliant ramps, elevators, and entryways; water mitigation; installation of a much-needed water sprinkler system; and fixing and updating the HVAC, plumbing, and electric systems so they are up to code, along with roof replacement. All of this needs to happen at a minimum to ensure the building is safe, up to code, and accessible to all.
Beyond the structural work that needs to be done, the renovation would provide community improvements. The Lynnfield Library staff are truly amazing, getting creative to provide programming and fit in a variety of offerings—from books to genealogy workspace to a library of things—in a limited and inflexible space. But by expanding the building’s footprint, the library would be able to offer even more.
A renovated space would provide a community gathering area for 70 people in a central location that is free to use. Added space means study rooms and programming areas, which all of our neighboring libraries already have. A dedicated teen space would allow teens to talk, study, watch movies, and play video games in a safe public space that is supervised and free. This renovation also offers an expanded children’s room with programming space that fits the needs of our youngest community members, as well as improvements to our genealogy room that protect the collection of irreplaceable books and items holding Lynnfield’s valuable and rich history.
It would also be nice for the Friends of the Library to get out of the boiler room, where we have to duck under HVAC ducts to store our books. Instead, we could have a space to safely sort and store our books, which are a driving factor in the success of the Lynnfield Library’s program funding, museum pass program, staff support, and more.
The renovation plans to retain the character of the building that the community loves and maintain the vibrancy of our town center. It will be a space for everyone, from preschoolers to seniors, that is accessible to all.
In our lives, we have three spaces: The first is home, the second is work, and the third is a place where we go to connect with others. A library is the heart of a community, and Lynnfield has the opportunity to transform this critical third space to continue connecting, creating, and growing.
We hope to see you at Town Meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m. at Lynnfield Middle School.
For renovation updates, please visit https://lynnfieldlibrary.org/about/renovation/.
Sincerely,
Jeana Tecci
Friends of the Lynnfield Library President
