Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie famously referred to libraries as “palaces for the people.” He believed that libraries could provide an exalted experience for individuals—a place where people could read, think and feel proud of their accomplishments.
We are pleased to invite the community of Marblehead back to the library on Pleasant Street. Abbot Public Library plays a vital role in our town by promoting literacy and lifelong learning, the freedom to read what we choose, the pursuit of knowledge and trusted information, providing free, inclusive and adaptive spaces for gathering, and supporting civic engagement through collaboration and connection with our community. We look forward to creating new memories and experiences at the library.
Abbot Public Library reopened on July 10, 2024, thanks to the town of Marblehead’s overwhelming approval of an $8.5 million override request to renovate and replace the failing infrastructure of the building at 235 Pleasant St. An additional $1.5 million from the Abbot Public Library Foundation, raised through private donations, was also made available to the town for the renovation. This contribution represents the continuation of the public-private partnership between the library and the community of Marblehead that began 146 years ago.
Highlights of the 2024 Renovation Include:
- Three new small meeting rooms equipped with presentation screens
- Audiovisual improvements to the Event Center and Carten Gallery
- An accessible entrance added to the courtyard
- A new makerspace and podcasting studio
- Self-checkout kiosks at all three service points
- Digital signage displays
- Improvements to Wi‑Fi connectivity
- New security, fire alarm and fire protection systems
- A centralized building management system that controls new HVAC and lighting systems
- Four new gender-neutral bathrooms
“We are grateful for the support of the town of Marblehead and the many financial supporters, including the Abbot Public Library Foundation; the Second Century Fund for their contributions to the new self-checkout equipment and digital signage; the Shattuck Memorial Fund for their contributions to the purchase of new outdoor book return bins, new library carts and Imagination Playground blocks; and the Driftwood Garden Club for their leadership in rehabilitating the front lawn and library gardens,” said Gary Amberik, chair of the Abbot Public Library Board of Trustees and the Building Renovation Committee.
We are also grateful to the Building Renovation Committee, which met twice a month throughout the duration of the project and included Gary Amberik (chair), Ken Fisher (vice chair), Nancy Perkins Arata (in our memory), John Williams, Kathy Bradford (Driftwood Garden Club) and Kimberly Grad (library director); architects from Johnson Roberts Associates and the project management team from CHA Consulting. Please also see the new project dedication plaque in the main vestibule of the library.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the renovation project start?
The renovation project began 10 years ago with the start of the Abbot Public Library Foundation (APLF) in 2014, then known as the Abbot Public Library Fund, and the renovation of the Killam Children’s Room in 2016. It is significant to note that without the renovation of the building’s infrastructure completed this year, the library would have been forced to close permanently.
Is the front walkway project complete?
Yes, the walkway project has been completed and the front doors to the library are open.
In addition to the reconstruction of the front walkway, what are some examples of additional accessibility that was implemented during the renovation?
We have met and exceeded accessibility standards and requirements in many areas throughout the library, including adding four new ADA-compliant restrooms, a new elevator and new automatic exterior door operators. We also leveled out the driveway to provide access to the courtyard and added a new curb cut to the lower-level entrance.
Has the library received a final certificate of occupancy?
Yes, the library received this certificate on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024.
How was the front walkway project funded?
The project was funded by the Abbot Public Library Foundation. There was no additional cost to the taxpayers of the town of Marblehead.
What are we looking forward to in 2025?
Additional grants will make it possible for us to develop new initiatives that will benefit the entire community, focusing on early literacy; science and art programs for school-age children; providing additional access to the Thompson Makerspace as well as improved access for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community; the development of memory care kits; and conversation practice groups for English language learners.
How is the community responding to the renovated library?
Our library staff has worked tirelessly to ensure a welcoming environment for all visitors. We have also expanded our programs and collections to include diversity, catering to a wide range of interests and backgrounds. This commitment to diversity not only enriches our community’s experience but also fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity. Additionally, our digital resources have been enhanced, providing easier access to e-books, audiobooks and online courses, which has been particularly appreciated by those who prefer virtual engagement. As we continue to innovate and adapt, we look forward to seeing even more community members take advantage of everything our library has to offer.
For more information, visit abbotpubliclibrary.org.