This project is the renovation and addition to the historic West Branch Library for the City of Somerville. The original branch is more than 100 years old, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, classified as a Carnegie Library. The Somerville Public Libraries were constructed with the assistance of funds from Andrew Carnegie. Completed in 1909, the West Branch was designed by Maclean and Wright. It is constructed of limestone and buff brick, the richly detailed cornice, entry gable with acroteria, corner quoins, and lamps flanking the entrance underscore the high social purpose of the library.
The renovation creates multipurpose and flexible spaces, allowing the library to host a variety of library-sponsored programs and events and have meeting space for use by the public. It also maintains and expands the children’s programs, creates designated quiet reading and study areas, increases educational opportunities, improves accessibility at the entrance and creates landscape that provides ample green and open space.
