Roselle Public Library Unveils Plans for State-of-the-Art Expansion

Fully ADA-Accessible Addition to Include Second Floor and Community Rooms

The Roselle Public Library will be getting a well-deserved upgrade with plans for an expansion that include a second floor dedicated to the Borough’s youngest residents.

The $11 million renovation and expansion are going to transform the current library into a hub for the community with two large program rooms, retractable seating and a warming kitchen, all designed to be used by community groups after regular library hours. Plans also include a generator for the first-floor wing in case of emergency situations.

“It is the Library Board’s opinion that this new building will be the nucleus for Roselle and all its residents,” said Library Board President Georgette Bradshaw before plans were unveiled at the regular council meeting on Feb. 16. “Literacy, innovation, culture, community, safety and service is our goal.”

Along with adding a second floor, the expanded 16,523-square-foot building will be fully ADA accessible with a ramp and elevators. Renovations will include updated HVAC and lighting, enhanced Wi-Fi, and expanded technology that will include audio visual systems for the community rooms, study areas and more.

The expansion will increase the library’s maximum occupancy from the current 79 to 279 people, while  the building’s exterior will feature the Borough’s slogan, “First in Light, first village to be lighted by Thomas Edison.”

Click here to read more.