Design Style: Retrofitted, pt. 1

RETROFITTED = these buildings were not originally constructed as libraries, but became such after renovation


Newton
[Year opened: 1998, Staff consulted: Cleo]
Most favorite architectural aspect: the history of the building
Least favorite architectural aspect: lack of space

My observations: This library is located within the abandoned gymnasium of the old Newton Elementary School. City offices fill the rest of the building. The gym/library was/is small but is now filled with books and history. It reminds be of the portable book fairs set up at my children's elementary school. I feel like it could all be packed up and moved at a moment's notice if needed. Former Director Cleo is very enthusiastic about the library and what it represents to the citizens of Newton.


Mendon
[Year opened: 2005, Staff consulted: Carolyn, Kathleen]
Most favorite architectural aspect: the small, 'homey' atmosphere (great for children)
Least favorite architectural aspect: lack of space/storage

[Side note: As I stepped out of my car at the Mendon Library, I dropped my expensive digital camera and broke it. I resorted to using my cell phone camera to document the trip. Only later did I discover that the photo dimensions had been set so small. What a disaster! I hope you can still get a sense of the intimate charm of this library.]

My observations: This library is located in a very small rented house. It takes up all of the kitchen, bedroom and living room. Staff is composed entirely of volunteers, two of which were preparing call number spine labels when I arrived. The house itself is about 100 years old, but the volunteers are thankful to even have that space for a library. Story time is held across the street in another, larger building and then everyone migrates over to the library afterwards. Obviously the newest, smallest public library in the county.