Construction Begins For North Amherst Library Renovation

The long anticipated renovation of the North Amherst Library got underway in recent days with the commencement of groundwork at the site. A chain link fence was constructed around the work area, a supervisor’s office was established at the former Sunoco station nearby, sewer lines were installed, and excavation was started for the foundation for the new addition.

The renovation, which is being fully funded by an anonymous donor, will add restrooms, a community meeting room, and disability access. It is expected to cost nearly $2M, a considerable escalation from the original estimate of $500,000 in 2018. The November, 2021 estimate was $1,250,000 but the lowest of three bids in January, 2022 — two months later — was $1,750,000 plus architect and engineering fees of $250,000 so far.

The North Amherst Library is one of the oldest buildings in town, completed in 1893 in what was then the “remote” northern end of town characterized by farming and factories along the Mill River. The architect was Roswell Putnam (1840–1911), the foremost residential architect in Amherst and Northampton in the last two decades of the 19th century.  The North Amherst library was Putnam’s first of three jewel box libraries, the other two being the Spear Memorial Library in Shutesbury and Meekins Library in Williamsburg.  Much of the history was reviewed and celebrated at the official groundbreaking for the construction on June 15, 2022.

Temporary Location Opens
While the renovation is underway, the collections from the North Amherst library have been moved to 81 Cowls Road. That venue will open Monday, August 29 at 3:30 p.m. Hours for the temporary location are as follows: