The Mamaroneck Public Library is undergoing a complete renovation. The 80-year-old library is transforming into a library of the 21st century.

            The building began in May 2008. The construction is necessary in order for the library “to be brought up to modern standards for safety, efficiency and ease of use,” said Helen Rafferty, President of the Mamaroneck Library Board.

            The total budget for this project is $19.5 million, including a goal of $6.5 million from community donations. This goal is only $500,000 away from being reached.

            The remainder of the needed money will come from a bond given by the Village of Mamaroneck trusties. This money will be used for a wide variety of things.

After construction, the modern facility will become a “silver LEED-rated Green building.” This means that it will be environmentally friendly.

            Also, at the request of the community, reading areas and comfortable chairs will be positioned throughout the building. In addition, there will be new areas set up for both a teen section and an expanded children’s library.

            There will also be many new technological innovations. There will be an updated technology center in the library. This addition will have WiFi and the latest media technology. Additionally, there will be automated checkout centers and more computer terminals.

            Lastly, it is hoped that the library will begin to act as a community center. A small café and a few meeting centers will be added to the building.

            All of these additions will allow for more services, new programs, user-friendly technology and much needed space to be available to the community.

            Most community members feel excited about the renovations. As Lauren Ellman ’11 said, “It will be good to have a place where I can go to study as well as have access to valuable resources.”