The Planning
In May 2022, Wilmington Memorial Library was awarded a $100,000 grant from the Cummings Foundation to revitalize the first floor of the library. Funding support for this project was also provided by the Barbara Johnson Trust, Friends of the Library and the Town of Wilmington. Library Director Tina Stewart, Assistant Library Director Danielle Masterson and retired Assistant Library Director Charlotte Wood worked with Oudens Ello Architecture (OEA) to develop the redesign.
The Work
After several months of planning, the first floor was closed for six weeks beginning in early June for project implementation. The library reopened the first floor on July 24 with new carpeting, fresh paint, new shelving, new furniture, and more. When the new “Welcome” sign was installed on August 22, the project was officially complete! The first floor is now more accessible, brighter, more visually-appealing and welcoming. In addition, the work flow is more efficient for staff and patrons. We hope library patrons will enjoy using this transformed space for many years to come.
The Highlights
Private study pods
Multiple seating options
Newspaper reading area
Welcoming service desk
Self-check near self-holds
