Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

A new or expanded library would be a people-centered space, offering meeting rooms, study areas, collaborative workspaces, and social and lounge spaces for patrons of all ages. A community room with seating for up to 120 people would be available for use by community groups, even outside of library hours. The Building Program identifies the need for a larger, open children's area for play and learning — it also prioritizes extra collection space, climate-controlled storage and displays for historical materials, and an outdoor programming space. We envision an accessible library facility that serves as a social, cultural, and educational center in the community for patrons of all ages.

Libraries are essential in bridging the digital gap by offering free access to computers, the Internet, and digital materials. Uxbridge has a vibrant reading community, with monthly print book circulation reaching near-decade highs for adults and e-book/e-audiobook usage consistently setting records. In FY23, the Library saw a 10-year high of 564 new library card registrations. Patrons can also borrow passes providing free or reduced admission to 20+ regional attractions and unconventional items like board games, sewing machines, and ukuleles. Moreover, the library serves as a vital community hub, hosting 459 programs in FY23 with 5,306 attendees, marking a 222% increase in program attendance since FY10.

The Library’s existing square footage is approximately 9,600 square feet. To meet the needs identified in the Library’s Building Program, a facility totaling approximately 23,111 gross square feet is needed.

The Board of Library Trustees has been actively attempting to purchase the needed land for construction and parking for years with no success. We are at a point where we need to consider other options that will best meet the Library’s space and accessibility needs.

Adding a much-needed elevator would trigger full ADA and safety code compliance and would entail significant building modifications. This includes providing a code-compliant stairway, accessible restrooms, and increasing the space between shelving units to allow for wheelchair access. Accommodating these modifications within the existing building poses significant challenges, likely resulting in reductions in collection space and other essential services. This would be an expensive undertaking and would impact the building’s overall functionality and long-term usability.

The 1894 building was accepted by the Town with the restriction that it be used “for a free public library… and for no other purposes whatsoever.” We want to provide a modern, accessible library that is responsive to community needs. If that isn’t possible on our existing site, the building could be used as a historical library/museum with limited hours to house the historical collections of the Library, the Town, and the Historical Society. The Town would still own the building and be responsible for its maintenance.

It's difficult to project the cost of library construction, without having already completed any feasibility or schematic design work. Based on the cost of recent projects and cost per square foot estimates, the total cost of a future library project could be upwards of $25 million. Ultimately, MPLCP construction funding typically covers 40% of eligible construction costs. Fundraising would be necessary to offset the final cost to taxpayers, and there have been discussions about forming a charitable foundation for these purposes.

In order to qualify for state construction grant funding, the project must meet the projected needs of the Town for 30 years. It is our belief that a smaller-scale, self-funded project may cost as much or not much less than the Town’s share of a state-funded project. Any future construction project should address accessibility, infrastructure improvements, and long-term functional needs.