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MBTS PUBLIC LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS

Very full meetings in spaces with bookshelves in the background.

Library Renovation Grant Opportunity 

Since its inception, the Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library has been a cherished part of the community, however, it faces many challenges due to its size, age and especially its many accessibility issues. The Library cannot truly fulfill its mission until it is ADA compliant and can provide welcoming and easy-to-navigate space for all. Libraries of today are not merely book repositories, but thriving community hubs providing access to information, resources, technology, programs, and lifelong learning opportunities with room to connect and grow. To do so, we need to renovate and expand.  

The Library is currently in the process of applying for grant funding to support our renovation/expansion goals. Should we be awarded a grant, Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program grants provide up to 50% of the eligible costs. The application will be submitted in May 2024.   

This application process requires an approved warrant article authorizing the Town to appropriate $150,000 for the planning and design phase of the project. Residents will vote on the warrant article at Town meeting in April. As we continue to work on the other pieces of the application, we are asking for your support. To stay up to date on this project, please visit https://www.manchesterpl.org/future-plans-at-the-library/  

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