The Collins Branch Has Reopened.

We hope that when you walk into the newly renovated Collins Branch Library your reaction is one of delight that your small, charming library could be so radically reconfigured and dramatically updated. The first thing you may like to know is the impetus behind the renovation. The City of Cambridge is committed to full accessibility to all residents, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act was a paramount concern. The age of the library building and its original purpose was not conducive to immediate conversion, so began the process of making the library truly open to one and all. (The library, built in 1921, was originally an office space for the Gale Lumber Company.)

After the accessibility challenges were addressed, the infrastructure of the building became a concern as well. It was decided that, in addition to a ramp and fully-accessible main floor bathroom, there was a need for new electrical work, a new roof, newly pointed chimney, gutters, insulation, and new lighting. While at first this work may seem chiefly cosmetic, it was a tremendous investment in the continued viability of the library in the neighborhood. The structural changes also go a long way in improving the green profile to which the city is committed, using resources wisely as it uses less. Throughout the library is new shelving with distinctive oak end panels, recalling the building’s first occupants, as well as echoing the irreplaceable oak trim everywhere. The addition of a Reading Garden, with plenty of outdoor seating, will greatly enhance the yard once the warm weather returns.

Upon entering you can see that the library has been neatly arranged so that there are two distinct halves: to the left is the Children’s Room and to the right is the Adult Collection. Both areas are united by the Circulation Desk within full view of both rooms. This accents the more logical flow of library traffic as patrons of all ages have immediate access to their area of interest. The floor of the Children’s Room has been redesigned in a bright and warm harlequin pattern, while the floor on the adult side has had many of its worn patches replaced with new oak. New furniture has been ordered and will accentuate the feeling of a comfortable lounge, or a reading club. As always, browsing is encouraged and relaxing and socializing is something we hope you will be able to enjoy.

The Cambridge Public Library is cognizant that the project arose quickly and took longer than was originally planned. Everyone at the library, and especially the Collins staff, sincerely appreciates the patience of the patrons and neighbors.* We are all fully confident that you will wholeheartedly agree that the extended period was worth the wait. We will continue to work diligently to ensure that you do.

We must pay special thanks to the everyone who made the project so successful. The City of Cambridge, the Cambridge Historical Society, and the Commission for Persons with Disabilities have been integral in shaping the project, providing funding, and lending their support whenever called upon to do so. The Department of Public Works has seen to it that the debris that accompanies such a project did not become an eyesore to the community, and the Landscaping Department will see to it that the Reading Garden becomes welcoming and beautiful. Austin Architects and Dagel Electric envisioned the project and carried it to completion, respectively. Primarily, we want to thank you, the patrons and neighbors of the Collins Branch Library, who have shown their belief in the continued importance of small libraries to the community. We take great pride in saying, “Welcome back to your new library!”

*Regularly scheduled programs will resume in March.

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, & Friday: 10:00 - 6:00 | Thursday: 1:00 - 8:00 | Closed Wednesday.