Built in 1902, the original Bolton Public Library has been in operation for over a century without a single major renovation. The historic library had grown in other ways, however, requiring a new course of action. The abundance of materials gained over the years led to a general lack of space for other traditional functions. Increased technology needs, such as internet access and security measures, also needed implementation. For such a heritage-centric town as Bolton, demolition of the existing building in favor of a larger facility was out of the question.

The key issue facing LLB centered around developing a design for the addition that was at once interconnected to the original through forms yet distinguished and functional. Several distinct styles were taken from the original structure and fused together, replicating materials to accurately reflect exterior themes. Repetition of dormers serve for both form and function, creating pop-out areas to maximize usable areas. The addition is linked to the original library through a glass connector, centralized with the new main entry and stair. This connection falls upon the new building’s central axis, simplifying circulation and program distinction.

Capitalizing upon the dichotomy of history and technology, program themes for each division relate back to the structures themselves. The cozy original building houses reading spaces, meeting areas, and historic materials. Elements in the addition include technology spaces, a separate children’s room, and an expanded administration branch.

The historic Gleason Public Library of Carlisle, Massachusetts, built in 1895 and renovated/expanded in 2000, has an unfortunate history of water penetration and infiltration. Limited repair work addressed gutter replacement and slate roof maintenance, without long-term correction. Lerner | Ladds + Bartels, along with Envelope Preservation Consultant Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc., conducted a full site analysis to determine existing breaches and deficiencies as well as the best methods of repair. The entire foundation will receive new waterproofing equipment, and a perimeter drain shall be installed to prevent buildup of standing water. The exterior will receive full brick and granite repairing and repointing, complemented by a full slate roof and flashing repair/replacement. Window restoration throughout includes wood rot repair, glazing and hardware repair, and sill replacement and painting. Existing damage is addressed with Interior drywall and flooring replacement.  

Over the past 250 years The Providence Athenaeum has enjoyed a vibrant history in remarkable settings. Founded in 1753 as an independent member-supported library, it has been located on Benefit Street on the historic East Side of Providence since 1838. Situated between Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, the Greek Revival building, designed by William Strickland, is the only example of his work in New England and is credited with promoting the style throughout the area. Subsequent additions by Norman Isham and William Platner allowed the library to expand its collection and storage capacity as well as provide additional spaces for the members; including a children’s area, a climate controlled rare book room, and additional office space.
The Athenaeum contracted Lerner Ladds + Bartels to address structural and life safety deficiencies prevalent throughout the building, as well as refine their existing master plan. The “Bound,” located directly below the circulation desk, (named for its traditional use as a bound-periodical storage area) was experiencing significant structural failure in the ceiling joists. Temporary steel columns filled the room in attempt to curb settling. LLB was charged with finding a permanent structural solution which would also eliminate all intermediate structure from the space. The removal of the existing columns and stacks, along with the subsequent finishes renovation, provided the Athenaeum with much needed flex-space usable for a range of functions. In conjunction with the structural renovation, LLB and their consultants identified all existing life-safety violations existing throughout the building. A report was compiled and presented to the Board of Directors which suggested ways to conform to current building codes while maintaining the historic integrity of the library. Construction was scheduled to coordinate with the Athenaeum’s annual summer shut-down, which allowed all of the heavy work to occur without interruption to the library staff and patrons. Not only was the primary goal to assist in the stability and integrity of the building itself, but also to maintain distinct coordination between consultants, and ensure that full operation of the Athenaeum was maintained throughout its project timeline. Phasing proved crucial to the project’s success, along with many protective measures to guard from debris, noise and other discomforts.