The Jones Library is pleased to announce that the FY 2027 budget recently signed by Governor Healy includes $50,000 in support of the Jones Library renovation and restoration, specifically the creation of gender neutral bathrooms on the Garden Level of the building.

The Garden Level will be perhaps the most actively used space in the Library. This newly expanded light-filled space will hold the Burnett Art Gallery, Special Collections, the Woodbury Room (a 200-person capacity meeting room), a smaller 40-person meeting room, and the Town's Civil War Tablets. For individuals or organizations providing free programs for the general public, meeting rooms will be available both during and after library hours, an extraordinary boon to Amherst’s non-profits, wellness groups, and community activities.

Previously in the Jones Library, a limited number of public restrooms were available, and only on one floor. Once the renovation and expansion is complete, the Library will have public restrooms on every floor. The Garden Level will feature an eight-stall unisex bathroom with floor to ceiling privacy partitions and sinks. A separate family restroom with a single toilet and sink will be adjacent to the unisex bathrooms as well.

Library Director Sharon Sharry noted, “We are overjoyed to have been chosen to receive these funds for so many reasons, but particularly because these gender-neutral restrooms will provide safety, privacy, and inclusivity for all Library patrons. This aspect of the Library project really speaks to the Library’s commitment to serving as a true community center for the entire Town. We are intensely grateful to Mindy Domb for her stalwart support of the Library throughout the years.”

The Jones Library renovation and expansion is expected to be completed in spring 2027. When complete, the Jones Library will be one of the most climate- friendly buildings in Amherst, restoring most of the original 1928 building, expanding programming space to meet current and emerging needs for all ages and multiple populations, while improving the layout to be fully accessible, functional, and welcoming for everyone. The Campaign has $6.1 million left to raise towards its $15.8 million goal. Staff and volunteers are working over the next year to bring the Campaign to a successful conclusion.

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We invite anyone interested in supporting the Jones Library renovation and expansion to make a donation, of any amount, today at joneslibrarycapitalcampaign.org/donate. If you are interested in making a gift to name a space in the library, please contact Lisa DeGrace (Director of Development) at info@joneslibrarycapitalcampaign.org.

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