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New Library Information

Progress report on the new Harvard Public Library at Old Bromfield

After years of planning, designing, preparation and construction, the new Harvard Public Library at Old Bromfield was formally dedicated on April 7, 2007 and opened to the public on April 10, 2007.  The old library at the corner of Fairbanks Street and Old Littleton Road was closed on March 10, 2007 with the last book checked out by long term Trustee, Dr. Jeffrey Harris.  In the space of just four weeks, the library staff pulled off the impossible by leading the efforts of National Library Relocators in the moving, re-shelving of over 55,000 items, installation of all new systems and setting up of furniture and seating in order to open the library as planned on April 10.

At the annual Town meeting March 27, 2004, the Town voted to provide $2.6M towards the construction cost of $7.1M with occupancy of the new facility in Q4 FY07.  The Trustees, Director, Building Committee and library staff are pleased to announce the project was completed within the allocated funding and opened precisely as promised. 

This dedication marks the end of the construction phase and the beginning of a new era of library services, space, and benefits to the Town of Harvard for the next millennium.

Keynote speaker, Dr. Em Claire Knowles, MBLC Chair Commissioner, commented, “On this day, I sing the praises of those who first had the vision, those who participated in the discussions and debates about the design, those who did the fundraising, the patience of the staff and community during the construction and the excitement about buying new furniture, chairs, tables; all the preparations for this day of celebration…I salute you on this great accomplishment!”  Also speaking was State Representative James Eldridge, “What an amazing day for Harvard.” 

The dedication was preceded with hundreds of children marching behind a bag piper and flags, each carrying a book from the old library to the greatly expanded new library.

The opening of the new library marks a milestone in the Harvard’s history.  Not only does the Town receive the benefit of a modern, spacious and beautiful library, but a fully restored Old Bromfield, preservation of the Bromfield fields, and a wonderful view-shed to Bare Hill Pond and the Town Center.  As one patron commented, “The new library is beyond beautiful!”

To all of those, including our architects, CBT, General Contractor, CTA, program management firm, DTI, a dedicated and professional library building committee, the library staff, our donors, the hundred of volunteers, the people of Harvard and lastly to our always committed, optimistic and inspirational library Director, Mary Wilson, on behalf of the Library Trustees a heartfelt Thank You and Job Well Done! 

Fund-Build-Enjoy!  Enjoy.

Roy Moffa,

Chair, Harvard Public Library Trustees

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