Somersworth Public Library Addition and Renovation Project
Building a Library for Everyone
The Somersworth Public Library Addition and Renovation Project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a fully accessible, welcoming library that serves everyone.
The renovation is a shared investment in Somersworth’s future. The City, Library, Friends of the Library, and community supporters are working together to create a modern, accessible, and welcoming library for generations to come.
A $500,000 federal grant funded the architectural design and construction documents, and the City has made a significant commitment to move this $7.3 million project forward. Additional grants are being pursued.
Thanks to the generosity of community donors, several sponsorship opportunities have already been filled. These gifts help make the vision for our renovated library a reality.
Sponsorships Filled:
Reading Nook — $5,000 Sponsored by George M. Bald and Candace Small
Children’s Room — $50,000 Sponsored by Bob Cullinane
Community Room — $40,000 Sponsored by Jeffrey and Patricia Francoeur
Adult Collection Space — $30,000 Sponsored by Cathy Beaudoin, in honor of her late mother, Anne C. Crist, former SPL Librarian
Elevator — $15,000 Sponsored by Kathleen Francoeur Bates
Patio — $8,000 Sponsored by Debora Longo, former SPL Director, in memory of David and Jane Gordon who gave Debora her love of books and reading.
Give by Check Checks may be made payable to: Friends of the Somersworth Public Library 25 Main Street Somersworth, NH 03878
*Contributions to qualified charitable organizations may be tax deductible. Tax laws and individual circumstances vary, so please consult the IRS or a qualified tax professional for guidance. Visit the IRS website for more information.
Business & Leadership Giving
Leadership gifts provide critical momentum and help demonstrate the local commitment needed to attract additional grants and outside funding.
Businesses and donors interested in gifts above $1,000, including opportunities for enhanced recognition, are invited to explore additional giving options.
Expanded and renovated spaces designed for today’s community.
A BETTER LIBRARY
More room for learning, gathering, creating, and connecting.
A COMMUNITY INVESTMENT
A project made possible by community support.
QUESTIONS?
We’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions about the renovation project.
The Somersworth Public Library was built decades before modern accessibility standards—and it shows. Much of the building remains out of reach for many residents. Inaccessible restrooms, the lack of an elevator connecting floors, limited accessible entrances—these create daily barriers for those with mobility challenges. In addition, aging infrastructure requires significant upgrades. The building’s open-concept design, once innovative, now limits how the library can serve the community. There are no private meeting rooms, few quiet areas for study, and little space for programs. Meanwhile, demand has surged, with program attendance increasing by 273% since 2022. Our community is showing up—but our space is no longer able to support them.
The services are strong. The staff is strong. The demand is strong.
The building is not.
At the Somersworth Public Library, residents rely on essential services that support daily life and long-term success, including free access to technology, early literacy programs for children, educational opportunities for all ages, and workforce and learning support.
When access to the building is limited, so is access to opportunity. Creating a fully accessible library means opening doors—for every resident—to learn, connect, and thrive.
An investment in the Somersworth Public Library Addition and Renovation project reaches far beyond the library walls. A vibrant, accessible library brings people downtown, increasing foot traffic and supporting local businesses. It helps position downtown Somersworth as a destination while strengthening our community’s social fabric.
Through shared experiences, programs, and welcoming spaces, the library enhances connection, supports mental well-being, and builds a sense of pride in our city.
The Somersworth Public Library is already doing the work. We support: • Early literacy and lifelong learning • Workforce development • Digital equity • Mental health • Community connection • Equal access for all
This renovation is not about aesthetics. It is about access. It is about efficiency. It is about making sure that every resident— regardless of age, income, or physical ability—can fully participate in everything we offer.
When the library is accessible, the entire community benefits.
The Path to Accessibility
Accessibility has been at the heart of efforts to improve the library for decades. The timeline below highlights that journey toward ADA compliance and why this renovation is so important.
Click the image below to enlarge it and explore the full Path to ADA Compliance.
The Somersworth Public Library Renovation Project will transform the building into a fully accessible, modern community hub.
KEY IMPROVEMENTS:
Ensure Full Accessibility • Elevator to all levels • ADA-compliant entrances and restrooms • Accessible pathways throughout
Expand Community Space • Community program room • Private meeting space • Quiet study areas
Enhance Children’s and Family Spaces • Redesigned Children’s Library • Flexible learning environments
Critical Upgrades to Preserve and Improve the Building • HVAC, electrical, and safety systems • Roof, foundation, and infrastructure repairs
These improvements will ensure the library remains a vibrant resource well into the future.
The plans offer a glimpse into a larger, more accessible, and more flexible library designed to serve our community for decades to come.
The expansion will include accessible restrooms and an elevator providing access to all four levels of the library, making the building easier for everyone to navigate and enjoy. The children’s area will feature a dedicated activity space, while the new teen section will offer comfortable seating designed for reading, studying, and spending time with friends.
The renovated library will also include a meeting room and multifunction space that can accommodate presentations, larger programs, community gatherings, and other events. Collections will be arranged with accessibility and ease of use in mind, creating a more welcoming experience for patrons of all ages.
The blueprints below provide an early look at how these spaces will come together. While they don’t capture every detail of the finished building, they show the exciting possibilities ahead—and how much the expansion will increase the library’s size, accessibility, and usability for generations to come.
We expect there may be a period during construction when the library temporarily moves to another location in the community, and there may be times when a temporary closure is necessary. While these details are still being determined, our goal is to move through the renovation as efficiently as possible so our community can enjoy the new library as soon as possible.
Throughout the project, our staff will remain committed to providing as many library services and resources as possible and keeping our community connected to the library.
Your Support Is Critical Private donations and leadership gifts are key to success. Early community investment demonstrates local commitment, reduces the financial burden on taxpayers, and strengthens our ability to secure additional grants and outside funding. As we prepare to launch a community-wide campaign, we are seeking individuals, businesses, and organizations willing to help lead the way.
How You Can Help
Make a leadership gift to support the project at this critical stage.
Connect us with businesses, banks, and others who may be willing to support the campaign.
Explore employer matching gift opportunities to increase the impact of your donation.
Volunteer as a campaign ambassador to help build awareness and community support.
Together, we can create a library that expands access, strengthens our downtown, and serves the needs of Somersworth for generations to come.
SEE WHAT’S TAKING SHAPE
Explore renderings and concepts of the new library. Click any image to view it larger.
