Library project enhancing accessibility, renovating programming spaces

posted on 5/7/2025

The renovation of the Dover Public Library is well under way. The $7.1 million project that began in March includes adding an addition and extensive interior renovations.

The most visible aspect of the project, at least from the outside, is the construction of the addition on the parking lot side of the library. In late April, crews poured 40 yards of concrete to create the foundation.

The addition will improve the side entrance into the library, which has become the de facto main entrance due to its proximity to the parking lot. The new entrance will provide direct and accessible access to all three floors with a new stairwell and elevator. There will also be a set of bathrooms on each floor.

On the top floor, the addition will extend above a section of the library's main floor – the addition built in the late 1980s – creating additional programming space on the library’s third floor.

Inside, the beloved 1905 Carnegie Library currently looks drastically different. Crews have spent considerable time stripping the interior to prepare for renovation. In the process, they've uncovered the original wooden and glass floors that have been hidden for decades. Sections of the wooden and glass floors will be restored as part of the project.

The interior restoration will open sections of the library that have been closed for storage and staff space, providing additional space for collections and programming areas. The Children’s Room footprint will expand into a sizable section underneath the main part of the library, previously used for storage. The little nub on the backend of the library will become a cozy reading nook. The elevated section of the Children’s Room will be transformed into a programming space, with a new accessibility ramp.

On the library’s main floor, areas are being renovated for current and future needs. With the new entrance from the parking lot, the area that previously held the periodicals and computers will become a lounge with chairs and desk space for reading and working. The main desk will move into the room that was previously the reference section. Where the main desk was located will be part of the adult book collections, along with neighboring areas, including areas previously used for storage. There will also be a Teen Room, providing a dedicated area that can be closed off for games, movies and other programming. 

The top floor is also being renovated, including in the lecture hall, which will get a facelift and a new sprinkler system, where most components will be tucked out of sight above the ceiling. Other spaces on the top floor will be renovated for staff space.

Library staff have been posting many photo updates to their Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/DoverPLNH) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/doverpubliclibrary/) accounts for those who would like to follow along with the construction process. Find floor plans and other construction updates at https://www.dover.nh.gov/government/city-operations/library/about-us/renovation/.

Library operations have moved to the McConnell Center during the renovation project.