A few weeks ago we shared renderings of what the outside of the Jones Library will look like once renovation and construction is complete in early 2027. Over the next few posts we will share images from inside the building.

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Inside the Library, historic elements are being preserved and restored. One example is the Barrel Vaulted Reading Room. This historic space was originally a theatre and was more recently used for adult fiction.

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The first floor will also include a welcoming “cafe” space where people can gather, work, and read with food and drink purchased from local eateries or brought from home. Elements of the historic building will be revealed, including the stone wall to the left.

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On the 2nd Floor, there will be space for quiet study and reading, with the beautiful historic mahogany restored and revealed. The 2nd Floor will also house a dedicated teen space, reference section and adult non-fiction section.

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In addition to all of this, the new library will:

• Provide a renovated and expanded Children’s Room, with plenty of space for children’s books and programs...all on one floor
• Offer a larger, climate-controlled storage space for Special Collections, including permanent, dedicated space for Amherst’s Civil War Tablets
• Provide a beautiful new home for the Burnett Art Gallery, showcasing the work of our regional artists
• Greatly expanded tutoring and classroom space for our ESL program
• A comfy and engaging dedicated teen space, something not otherwise available in Amherst
• Plenty of meeting space for everyone, including a renovated Woodbury Room which will allow for community events to occur even after hours.
• And so much more!

With construction now underway, we urgently need your help to complete funding for the project.

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Join hundreds of other individuals, businesses, and organizations supporting the Jones Library building project. Make a pledge or gift to the Jones Library Capital Campaign today!

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