Westford, MA – Finegold Alexander Architects announced it recently celebrated the official groundbreaking for the renovation and expansion of the J.V. Fletcher Library project in Westford.
The ceremony, held on June 23, included speeches from Senator John Cronin, State Representative James Arciero, Town Manager Kristen Las, Westford Selectboard member Thomas Clay, Library Trustee Foundation Liaison Marianne Fleckner, MBLC Commissioner Jessica Vilas, Building Committee Vice Chair Scott Hazelton and Library Director Ellen Rainville.
J.V. Fletcher Library groundbreaking
“Today’s symbolic spadeful marks the celebration of the next transformative chapter of the J.V. Fletcher Library as we usher in a versatile library design which will serve residents well into the 21st century,” said Rainville.
Originally established in 1895, J.V. Fletcher Library is a $24.1 million project for Finegold Alexander, with Hutter Construction as the general contractor and CHA Consulting as owners project manager. To support the project, Westford was awarded a base grant totaling $7,851,994 from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) as part of its Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program (MPLCP).
Finegold Alexander Architects’ design preserves the library’s historic front facade, maintaining its timeless charm while creating a seamless transition into the 21st century. The main entry level is designed to welcome visitors with an open and inviting space. The children’s area will be doubled, and the design will provide direct access to an outdoor storytelling space. On the second floor, the layout will include expanded areas for adult collections, diverse meeting spaces, and a dedicated tween/teen/young adult section that will triple in size. The design also emphasizes enhanced accessibility, ensuring an inclusive experience for all patrons.
(l-r): Micajah Tucker, RA, architect, Finegold Alexander; Ellen Anselone, AIA, LEED AP, principal-in-charge, Finegold Alexander; Leah Wolkovich-Quartey, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, associate, project architect, Finegold Alexander; and Tony Hsiao, AIA LEED AP, design principal, Finegold Alexander
“We are honored to be entrusted with the renovation and expansion of the J.V. Fletcher Library for the community of Westford,” said Ellen Anselone, AIA, principal-in-charge. “Our design approach focuses on preserving the library’s heritage while enhancing its functionality and inviting atmosphere.”
The J.V. Fletcher Library renovation and expansion project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
